Small team from Cebu barangay contributes big for Philippines arnis team

The success of Team Philippines in the recently concluded 12th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (Wekaf) World Championships showed exactly what unity and sheer dedication can do.

After 10 long years, the country once again got to taste the overall championship in the said tournament as it hauled in 62 gold medals, 36 silvers and 36 bronze medals in a dominant performance that left all the other competing countries in the dust.

For all the contributions of the major cities in this feat, a small barangay near Talamban named brgy. San Jose did what it could with its meek delegation and brought in a hefty haul of six gold medals, seven silvers and a bronze to add to the winning cause of the country.

Helping to put San Jose on the map was the impressive performance of 14-year old Frank Joseph Borces of the University of San Carlos-North Campus, who won three gold medals (single stick, synchronized, three-man team) and a silver medal (foam stick).

Under the watchful eye of his father Jose Borces and the unwavering support of councilor Jenysel Kadungog, the stickfighter who has been practicing the sport for 11 years already has managed to achieve his dream of success on the international stage.

“I’m very proud of this achievement and very thankful. This is really my biggest achievement so far in my career especially since we beat the US in the synchronized forms, which they have won for 12 straight years,” said Borces.

The other gold medal winners from brgy. San Jose were John Vergara (foam stick), Julio Divinagracia (double stick) and James Narvaza (single stick).  The silver medal winners were Elmo Malazarte, Jelian Ceniza, Joseph Velayo, Judahlano Coca, Leonedes Cabido, Jerson Damaolao and Romar Embodo. The lone bronze medal winner was Jennifer Coca.

Kadungog said that there are about 20 kids training at their sports complex and hopes more would join them soon.