Young Filipino Karatekas Bring Home Gold, Bronze from Asian Youth Championship
The Philippines’ young karate talents delivered another impressive showing on the international stage after winning one gold medal, two bronze medals, and several strong finishes at the 3rd Asian Karate Youth Open Championship and Training Camp held in Hangzhou, China from July 22 to 26.
Leading the charge was Romeo Viktor Enriquez, who captured the gold medal in the Under-10 Male Kumite (+40 kg) division during his first international tournament.
The nine-year-old Fight Alliance Sports Team (FAST)–ISKF standout, coached by national team coach and former Karate Pilipinas captain Engene Dagohoy, also placed among the Top 5 in the Under-10 Male Kata event.
Another podium finish came from Raphael Mariano Herrera, who secured the bronze medal in the Under-14 Male Kata. The 13-year-old earned his second consecutive bronze medal at the Asian Karate Youth Championship, continuing his strong run in international competition.
Ten-year-old Ripley Borromeo also impressed after finishing in the Top 5 of the Under-12 Female Kata and the Top 7 of the Under-12 Female Kumite.
Joining the Philippine delegation from FAST–ISKF were Ellis Cañoza and Colin Paolo, who also represented the country in the tournament.
Dagohoy praises young karatekas
National team coach Engene Dagohoy commended the young athletes for their performances against some of Asia’s top youth karate competitors.
“We are extremely proud of what these young athletes accomplished in Hangzhou. Their medals are the result of countless hours of disciplined training, sacrifice, and unwavering determination,” Dagohoy said.
He added that the team’s success reflects the bright future of Philippine karate.
“The future of Philippine karate is in good hands. These children have shown they can compete—and win—against the best young karatekas in Asia. This is only the beginning, and we will continue to work hard to prepare them for even bigger international competitions.”
The tournament featured participants from China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Macau, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Uzbekistan.
Another Filipino wins double medal
Meanwhile, Wifredo Apelledo of AAKR Karatedo successfully defended his title by winning gold in the Under-12 Male Kata while adding a silver medal in the Under-12 Male Kumite (-45 kg).
He was joined in the AAKR delegation by Ysabella Arwen Varias.
