Manila: The 1,200-strong Team Philippines, which produced 50 gold medals at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, topped the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) monthly achievers for December 2025. The contingent, which also scooped 73 silvers and 154 bronzes, finished sixth overall in the medal tally board behind Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.

According to Philippines News Agency, Filipino-Canadian swimmer Kayla Noelle Sanchez debuted in the biennial meet with eight medals, including three golds and five silvers. Pole vaulter EJ Obiena won his fourth straight gold medal, while 16-year-old Naomi Cesar dominated the 800m event. The athletics team garnered five golds, seven silvers, and 19 bronzes, marking its second-best performance since winning 32 medals in 1983.

Practical shooters led by world champion Rolly Tecson delivered four golds, five silvers, and five bronzes. Swimming captured three golds, nine silvers, and two bronzes, followed by modern pentathlon, triathlon, and gymnastics, each contributing to the medal haul.

Gilas Pilipinas Men retained the 5-on-5 title, while their female counterparts regained the crown, both at the Thais' expense. The Philippines also triumphed in men's and women's softball titles and the men's baseball title. Tennis sensation Alex Eala ended a 26-year drought in women's singles, while Eumir Marcial produced boxing's only gold medal. Peter Groseclose excelled in winter sports, securing gold in the men's 500m short track speed skating and silver in the 1,500m event.

In women's football, the Filipinas dethroned eight-time winner Vietnam on penalties, 6-5, after a goalless tie at the end of extra time. Alas Pilipinas made history in women's beach volleyball with Sisi Rondina, Bernadeth Pons, Sunnie Villapando, and Dij Rodriguez ending Thailand's dynasty.