Negrense kendokas shine in int’l tourney

August 19, 2025

The NSKC is one of the representing clubs of the Philippine contingent at the Ho Chi Minh City International Kendo Tournament 2025 in Vietnam.* **(NSKC photo)**

Under the masterful tutelage of Jowash Saballero, Negros Shiseikan Kendo Club (NSKC) made history on the Asian stage after winning 14 medals and 4 trophies during the 2-day Ho Chi Minh City International Kendo Tournament 2025 in Vietnam, which ended on August 10.

Saballero captured the championship title in the 2nd Dan Men’s category and a Bronze medalist in the 3-team event together with Robert Thomas Martinez, Jowash Saballero, Alec Mendoza, and Christopher Marañon. “I don’t feel I’ve won because I became the champion. I felt like a champion when my students won their championships. Above all, I believe the true champions are those who keep fighting and never give up, even when faced with the impossible,” Jowash-sensei said in a social media post. Robert Martinez bagged a Bronze medal in the Under 1 Dan Men’s; at the same time, Al Mendoza got a Fighting Spirit Award.

“This win is for Negros Province and every Negrosanon who dreams of stepping onto the international stage. A reminder that it’s never too late to chase your passion and represent our home with pride,” Jowash-sensei added.

Sisters Jackie and Juneseth Magpusao pose for a souvenir with their trophies.* **(HLM photo)**

Lyndi Lou Mendoza and Jackie Louise Magpusao battled their way against formidable foes for a championship trophy in the 1st Dan Women’s and Children’s (Girls), respectively. In the Women’s Team, Lyndi Mendoza and sisters Jackie & Juneseth Magpusao were champions, proving their dominant performance in the tournament. Mendoza also received a Fighting Spirit Award, while Juneseth secured a Silver medal in the Under 1 Dan Women’s.

“This victory is a testament to the discipline, perseverance, and unity of our team,” Jowash-sensei further said. “We faced some of the best kendo players in the world, yet our athletes stayed true to the spirit of kendo.”

Looking back, Jowash-sensei and founder Onose Takeyasu Sensei from Japan renamed NSKC (formerly OISCA Negros Kendo Club), with the dojo’s name (Shiseikan) reflecting its guiding principle: “The Highest Sincerity.” One of the proud milestones for the growing kendo community in Negros Occidental was his kendokas’ dominance in the 6th Philippine National Kendo Tournament last year held in Davao City.* (James G. Toga)