Philippines ready to hold ‘largest’ SEA Games opening with grand ceremony

MANILA (UPDATE)—A grand opening ceremony that ties together Filipino culture with modern visual effects is set to mark the official start of the Southeast Asian Games at Philippine Arena on Saturday night, tournament organizers said on the eve of the occasion.

Spectators can expect a world-class performance that will highlight homegrown talent, craftsmanship and values while delivering a message of unity and inclusivity among Southeast Asian countries, said Palanca-award winning playwright Floy Quintos, who directed the opening production.

"The opening suite, 'Ugat ng Ating Lakas' (The Roots of Our Strength) is a series of power dances from the Bagobo, the Kalinga, the Maguindanao and the pre- hispanic Bisayans," Quintos said in a Facebook post.

"I won't give the rest of the show away. But I can say that God, the humorous, all-seeing Bathala of the Filipinos, will be in the details," he said.
The Black Eyed Peas' apl.de.ap and Lani Misalucha will be among the performers in the event welcoming more than 5,500 athletes to the Games this year, the country's fourth hosting. 

The ceremonies will be held at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. 

Read more: ABS CBN News