Dubai: The Philippines will send 48 athletes to the 2025 Asian Youth Para Games set from Dec. 7 to 14 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The Filipinos are entered in goalball (six in the men's division and six in the women's side), athletics (10), swimming (7), powerlifting (4), table tennis (4), wheelchair basketball (4), badminton (3), boccia (2), and archery (2).

According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled (PHILSPADA) official Milette Santiago-Bonoan is optimistic about the potential of the team in the event aimed at developing the next generation of Asian para-athletes and providing them with valuable international exposure. 'I'm just glad that they have the opportunity to compete at this level. They have the heart to represent the country in any way they can," said Santiago-Bonoan, the chef de mission of Team Philippines.

She added that the team's participation hopes to encourage more institutions to further embrace inclusivity in their sports programs. 'Sports build character and self-esteem. These kinds of events are important for these kids because it gives them hope and confidence. It inspires them to be better, so this tournament matters so much,' said Santiago-Bonoan.

At the 2021 edition in Bahrain, the Philippines won a gold medal from swimmer Ariel Joseph Alegarbes, six silvers, and two bronzes across swimming, athletics, and table tennis. Alegarbes, who went on to win medals in the ASEAN Para Games, has competed at the World Para Swimming Championships this year.

Other former Asian Youth Para Games campaigners were ASEAN Para Games champion swimmers Angel Otom and Gary Bejino, and table tennis players Linard Sultan and Mary Eloise Sable, both medalists at the ITTF World Para Future Tournament in Chinese Taipei last June.