Nakhon ratchasima: Cambodia will not send a delegation to the 13th ASEAN Para Games scheduled for January 20 to 26 in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Thailand. In a letter dated January 8, the National Paralympic Committee of Cambodia (NPC Cambodia) informed the ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) that unforeseen circumstances have led to their athletes and officials not participating in the biennial sporting event.
According to Philippines News Agency, the letter, addressed to APSF president Maj. Gen. Osoth Bhavilai, was signed by NPC Cambodia Secretary-General Yi Veasna. The APSF acknowledged the notice and confirmed Cambodia's non-participation, with Bhavilai stating that the federation respects Cambodia's decision. "While we regret Cambodia's absence from the 13th ASEAN Para Games, APSF fully respects the decision conveyed by NPC Cambodia under its prevailing circumstances," Bhavilai said in a news release.
The withdrawal comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between Cambodia and Thailand. Cambodia had also pulled out of last month's Southeast Asian Games. Bhavilai emphasized that Cambodia remains a valued member of the ASEAN Para sports family, recognizing its contributions, including hosting the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Phnom Penh in 2023.
Before the withdrawal, Cambodia had submitted an entry list of 103 athletes competing in 12 sports, along with 41 officials. Bhavilai also noted NPC Cambodia's appreciation for the preparations undertaken by APSF, the National Paralympic Committee of Thailand, and the Thailand ASEAN Para Games Organizing Committee. Preparations in Nakhon Ratchasima are in their final stages, with the games featuring 19 sports across multiple venues.
Korat will be hosting the games for the second time, 18 years after the fourth edition in 2008. The Philippines will be sending 216 athletes, although it will not compete in blind football, wheelchair tennis, and wheelchair shooting. Wheelchair racer Jerrold Pete Mangliwan, who competed at the Paralympic Games in 2024, 2016, and 2020, will be the flagbearer at the opening ceremony.
