Members of the Philippine contingent to the 2019 Arafura Games with Honorable Januario John R. Rivas AM, Philippine Honorary Consul General in Darwin.

DARWIN, Australia – The Philippines, one of more than 40 countries, is participating in the 2019 Arafura Games, on 26 April to 4 May 2019 in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.

The 2019 Arafura Games, which is held every two years, features 17 sports disciplines. It is a unique, inclusive multi-sport event where athletes with a disability compete in the same program as able-bodied athletes. Competitors from around the world compete in the week-long games held every 2 years in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.

The Philippines’ contingent, composed of 158 team officials, coaches and athletes, arrived in Darwin on 24 April 2019. They are participating in athletics, basketball, badminton, beach volleyball, boxing, muay thai, swimming and weight lifting.

In the first 3 days of competitions, Philippine Honorary Consul General John Rivas reported that the Philippines won 28 gold, 41 silver and 24 bronze for a total of 93 medals.

Consul General Rivas also extolled the Filipino community in Darwin for demonstrating the spirit of Bayanihan as they extended their support to the athletes. Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega conveyed her congratulations to the Philippine contingent and noted, “The Philippines has a long history of friendship with Northern Territory. I congratulate Team Philippines for their remarkable achievement and thank the organizers of the Arafura Games for creating opportunities for people around the world to strengthen our ties through sports.” END