Chengdu: Team Philippines was assured of at least a silver medal in the World Games after Chezka Centeno marched to the women's 9-ball final on Wednesday at the Civil Aviation Flight University of China - Tianfu Campus Gymnasium in the city of Chengdu. Centeno defeated China's Shasha Lui in the semifinal, 7-4, earlier in the day. She will face another Chinese player, Yu Han, at 7 p.m.

According to Philippines News Agency, Han, a three-time world 9-ball champion, advanced after a 7-3 victory over German Ina Kaplan in the semifinals. "I am happy to be here with a big opportunity to win the gold. In the finals, it is all about focus," said the 26-year-old pride of Zamboanga City. "She's a good player and the fans will surely go out and support her. But I know I'm ready," added Centeno, who beat Han in the final of the 2023 World 10-ball Championship.

The Philippines has already secured two medals, a silver from Kaila Napolis in ju-jitsu and a bronze from Carlos Baylon in wushu sanda, with four days left in the tournament. As of 3 p.m., China has claimed 19 golds, six silvers, and two bronzes.

Meanwhile, Aislinn Yap is set to compete in the sambo women's combat -80kg quarterfinals on Thursday at the Jianyang Cultural and Sports Centre Gymnasium. Yap is recognized as the world's No. 1 in the sport that combines striking and grappling and was developed in Russia. "We have a big chance. Aislinn's fight will show the world the spirit of Filipino samboists," said Pilipinas Sambo Federation president Paolo Tancontian.

Additionally, Franklin Yee, Maynard Pecson, and John Patrick Ciron will participate in the men's individual duathlon event at the Xinglong Lake Hubin Arena. Triathlon Association of the Philippines President Tom Carrasco Jr. is optimistic about a strong performance from the endurance athletes.