President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday welcomed His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), during a courtesy call at Malacañang Palace, underscoring efforts to strengthen international collaboration in sports development.
The President expressed appreciation to Al Thani and his delegation for visiting the Philippines despite their demanding schedule, noting the importance of sustained engagement with key regional sports institutions.
Discussions during the meeting focused on expanding cooperation in athlete training, building institutional partnerships, and evaluating the Philippines’ potential to host future regional and international sporting events. Both leaders highlighted the value of deeper collaboration with the OCA to broaden opportunities for Filipino athletes through enhanced access to training programs, competitions, and development resources.
In a social media post, President Marcos said the meeting reflects the administration’s firm commitment to empowering Filipino athletes to “train, compete and win on the world stage.”
He added that the engagement signals growing confidence in the Philippines as a reliable regional sports partner, emphasizing the government’s continued investment in sports development.
“We will keep investing in our athletes so they can carry our flag with pride and inspire the next generation,” the President said.
The Olympic Council of Asia, which oversees major multi-sport events across the region, plays a pivotal role in shaping athletic development and participation among its member nations. Its initiatives significantly influence the Philippines’ access to competitions, funding, and capacity-building programs.
Joining Al Thani during the visit were Qatar’s Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmed Saad N.A. Al-Homidi and OCA Director General Husain A.H.Z. Al Musallam, along with other officials.
Representing the Philippines were Abraham Tolentino, President of the Philippine Olympic Committee, and John Patrick Gregorio, Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission.
