Believe it or not, the Philippines is planning to bid for the Olympic Games.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio said he pitched the idea to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos and the Chief Executive told him to go for it.

Gregorio made that bold announcement last Monday during a meeting involving sports leaders and medalists in the Asian Youth Games.

“The year 2036 is still open. They say, bidding is one thing, winning is another thing. Let’s just bid, and if they give it to us during our lifetime, at least we started it,” Gregorio said.

“I presented it to President Marcos and he said ‘Why not? Plot it. That is why you have the sports tourism inter-agency committee, plot it with the (Philippine) Olympic Committee.’”

Gregorio, a veteran sports leader, said the potential hosting will boost tourism in the country.

“And it is a very good story, it is a very good narrative — that Southeast Asia is willing, open, and interested to work together to bid for the Olympic Games,” Gregorio said.

Gregorio does not have to look far in the region for a possible collaboration.

The Philippines joined forces with Indonesia and Japan to host the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Also, the country is also set to host big events this year such as the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships from 20 to 24 November and the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup from 21 November to 7 December.

Currently Los Angeles will host the 2028 Summer Games while Brisbane, Australia will host in 2032.