Province holds inaugural Guv’s Cup National Karatedo Championship

As the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental aims to continuously promote grassroots sports development in the province, Governor Eugenio Jose V. Lacson and the Provincial Sports Office recently held the Governor’s Cup National Karatedo Championship on June 15, 2024 at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central Activity Area.

It was participated by various teams from different parts of the country.

In his welcome address, Gov. Lacson said the inaugural karatedo national championship signified the commitment of the provincial government to promote “sportsmanship, discipline, and excellence.” He reminded the student-athletes that karatedo embodies “respect, integrity, and perseverance,” which are “values that connect to humanity.”

The governor also praised the participants for their “skills, dedication, and passion” for karatedo, saying tournaments as such motivate them to aim and compete for higher competitions and an “opportunity for cultural exchange, fostering camaraderie, and building lasting friendships among the athletes.”

He added their participation “reflects hard work, dedication, and love of the sport.”

Apart from Gov. Bong Lacson, Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation, Inc. Referee Council Chairman and World Karate Federation Referee Renshi Chino Veguillas also gave a short message as the referee chairman of the tournament. Talking to the participants, Veguillas stressed the importance of gratefulness for losses and failures, saying “without failures, there will be no victories.”

He reminded the student-athletes to be “grateful for what we were given because those are the things that will build your character.”

Meanwhile, there were 19 teams that participated in the first ABANSE NEGRENSE Governor’s Cup National Karatedo Championship, including teams from Iloilo, Dumaguete, Cebu, Bohol, Metro Manila, Cavite, and Negros Occidental. 1st SHUREIDO International Championship gold medalist Senpai Andi Gensoli led the oath of sportsmanship, while Philippine Team Coach Shihan Junel Perania led the final bow during the opening ceremony of the tournament.

As for the winners, ITSMAI KARATEDO Team of Iloilo was hailed the overall champion for amassing a total of 13 gold, 9 silver, and 14 bronze medals. Next in rank was AODH MAASIN KARATEDO Team (Iloilo), which won a total of 12 golds.

The PASIG KARATEDO Team, on the other hand, was hailed the 2nd runner-up for winning a total of 9 golds. The ABANSE NEGRENSE Team (Negros Occidental) took home the 3rd runner-up award for winning 8 golds.

The national karatedo championship was part of the ABANSE NEGRENSE Sports Programs spearheaded by Gov. Lacson.* (Provincial Sports Office)