CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Two young karatekas from Bukidnon secured national selection spots for the upcoming 2027 Karate 1 World Youth League Manila following bronze-medal performances at the Sigtuna Hall on Nov. 7, 2026.
Organized by the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc., the national selection was hosted in partnership with the Tagaytay City Government, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission, and MILO.
National Selection
Representing the Bushido Thru Martial Arts Development Association (BMDA), Leirian Gabrielle Obsioma secured bronze in the Under-14 female kumite +52kg category, while Chadwyck Sevilla captured bronze in the Under-14 male kumite -55kg division.
The national achievements follow BMDA's recent success at home, where the squad earned 65 total medals at the 2nd BMDA Karatedo Bukidnon Tournament in Malaybalay City on Oct. 17 and 36 medals at the inaugural Malaybalay City Karatedo Championship.
Bronze Haul
Obsioma relied on defense and patient timing to navigate a tough field in her weight division.
"My biggest challenge was staying focused and composed, especially because the competition was very tough and every match required my full effort. There were moments when I felt pressured, but I reminded myself to trust my training and believe in my abilities," Obsioma said.
Sevilla noted that staying calm under pressure proved key during his bronze-medal run.
"During my matches, I try to stay calm, focused, and confident. I remind myself to trust my training, listen to my coach's instructions, and never give up until the match is over," Sevilla said.
Local Backing
Co-coaches Michael Pabillore and Crisel Chiong highlighted that municipal funding and parental sacrifices made the Tagaytay campaign possible.
"The support of Malaybalay City Mayor Warren Pabillaran, together with the parents of our athletes, has been very important to our journey. Behind every athlete's achievement is a support system that provides encouragement, resources, and motivation," Pabillore said.
Sevilla added that knowing his hometown is behind him fuels his daily preparation.
"Knowing that my parents, coaches, teammates, and the people of Malaybalay City are supporting me gives me more motivation to work hard," Sevilla said.
Manila Bound
Looking ahead to the 2027 international meet in Manila, coaching staff will shift focus toward technical speed, tactical development, and match exposure.
Obsioma emphasized that earning a national berth serves as motivation to push her limits against international opponents.
"I feel very happy, proud, and grateful for this opportunity. Earning a spot in the Karate 1 Youth League Manila 2027 is a dream and a big motivation for me to work even harder," Obsioma said.
