EJ Obiena Wore These Quirky Socks to the SEA Games
The pole vaulter clinched his fourth consecutive gold wearing socks that scream Pinoy pride.
by Kyla Villena
Published on Dec 18, 2025
On December 16, EJ Obiena earned his fourth consecutive gold at the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), held in Bangkok’s Supachalasai National Stadium. The Filipino pole vaulter cleared 5.70 meters on his first attempt, breaking the sport event’s 5.65-meter record, which he set in 2023.
The host country’s representative, Amsamang Patsapong, cleared 5.70 meters as well. However, he was defeated by EJ as the Thai athlete achieved it on his third attempt. It was a double podium for the Philippines with Elijah Cole’s jump of 5.20 meters, leading to his bronze victory.
Winning at the SEA Games is not the only tradition that EJ seems to be upholding. He has also maintained his quirk for donning eye-catching socks in his competitions.
EJ Obiena's Quirky Socks at the SEA Games
Who could forget EJ’s socks at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he had the face of his coach, Vitaly Petrov, printed on them? Just as memorable was his chosen black pair for this year’s SEA Games, which was adorned by various signages of jeepneys’ route destinations.
“I’m competing for my country and looked for socks that properly represent the masses, and this is it,” EJ told the Olympics. He also revealed that he grew up riding jeepneys on his commute to school. “I would say most Filipinos have ridden one, if not every day of their lives.”
EJ shared that he decided to wear them with the intention to pay homage to the country he represents. The socks were a gift to him, and he considers them as “the best one I’ve had yet.” Needless to say, he embodies the Philippine spirit from head to toe.
The Exact Socks EJ Obiena Wore at the SEA Games
Kyla Villena loves a good lip gloss and a trip to the art gallery. She is Preview's beauty girl, who doubles as a self-proclaimed motivational speaker.