By Kristel Satumbaga
Samahang Kickboxing ng Pilipinas seeks to strengthen its grassroots program next year following a successful campaign at the recent 30th Southeast Asian Games.
Philippines’ Jean Claude Saclag (red) wins against Malaysia’s Mohammed Mahmoud in Kickboxing -63.5kg Low Kick during the SEA Games at Cuneta Astrodome, December 10, 2019. (Rio Leonelle Deluvio / Canon 1DX Mark II with 400mm f2.8 lens)
The sport debuted in the biennial meet with the Filipinos delivering three gold, two silver and one bronze medal in the eight events at stake.
Kickboxing chief Sen. Francis Tolentino hopes their fruitful showing at the SEAG would encourage the youth to engage in the sport.
He plans to propose to include the sport in the Palarong Pambansa, an annual multisport tournament for elementary and high school students across the country.
“We’ll be discussing this with the DepEd (Department of Education) kung paano maisali ito sa Palarong Pambansa even on a trial basis,” said Tolentino.
Tolentino said the Filipinos have inherent skills in the sport, which has been evident during the PH team’s campaign in the SEAG.
“Compared to other country, medyo bagito pa tayo pagdating dito, but we showed our skills. Hindi naman tayo nagpatalo,” he said.
With the SEAG success, Tolentino also plans to hold a national event in the summer of 2020 for aspiring national athletes.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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