[4] Preparations for the biannual tournament has been hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which also led to the cancellation of the 2020 ASEAN Para Games which was supposed to be hosted by the country.

The final delegation consists of 981 people, among them are 641 athletes competing in 38 sports, 318 officials and 18 support staff members.

[13] Al Panlilio was also tasked to head the vaccination program of the Philippine delegation for the 2021 SEA Games.

[16] This include swimmer Luke Gebbie, national record holder for the 100-meter freestyle, who was rendered unable to compete.

[25] Philippines Men's Volleyball team failed to defend their silver medal last Southeast Asian Games 2019.