Team Pilipinas bowed out of Netflix’s Physical: 100 Asia in a tense Episode 7 showdown, becoming the third nation eliminated from the high-stakes regional contest. The Philippines joined Thailand and Indonesia in the early exits, with Turkiye following suit in Episode 8.
CrossFit athlete Justin Hernandez, who replaced boxing legend Manny Pacquiao mid-series, faced off in the sack throw event against Australia’s Eddie Williams and Korea’s Amottie. Williams dominated the challenge, while Amottie held firm, leaving Hernandez to carry the nation’s hopes in a final throw that fell short of the hurdle.
Despite the setback, Hernandez earned praise from teammates Mark Striegl and Justin Coveney, who consoled him after the loss. Coveney, the team captain, lauded Hernandez’s grit, saying, “Justin really showed how much of a beast he actually is… epitomizing what that Filipino fighting spirit is”.
The Philippines had earlier survived elimination by defeating Thailand in a Death Match, but the sack toss proved decisive in Group A’s Team Representative round. Korea advanced alongside Australia, while the Philippines was eliminated in a tie-break scenario.
Episode 8 saw Group B’s turn in the spotlight, with Turkiye finishing last in their own sack toss heat and endurance challenges, sealing their exit from the competition.
Physical: 100 Asia continues to draw global attention with its country-versus-country format, featuring elite athletes from eight nations battling for a ₩1 billion prize — approximately US$700,000. The show blends strength, strategy, and national pride, with each episode delivering intense matchups and emotional farewells.
