PBBM to PH kendo team: Bring 'winning spirit' that defines nation

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wished the Philippine delegation good luck as it competed in the 19th World Kendo Championships from July 4 to 7 in Milan Italy.

"As you wield the shinai with the vigorous character required for it, may you also keep brandishing the staunch Filipino soul as well as the winning spirit that define our people and nation," President Marcos said in his message posted on Facebook page of the United Kendo Federation of the Philippines (UKFP) on Thursday.

"Playing for the country on the world stage is truly among the greatest distinctions that any athlete could achieve," the President said.

As the Filipinos compete for the first time in this 60-nation tournament, President Marcos said "you have proven to the world and most especially to yourselves, that you have the might to reach the extent of your potential and the willpower to overcome the hurdles that come with this extraordinary pursuit."

"As I know that this achievement takes years of pain, sweat, and tears, I honor each of you for your relentless motivation and hard work," he said.

The President also recognized the Philippine team coaches – Akita Tomoyuki (head coach), Shingaki Keitai and Itoh Masamichi (women's), and Esaki Yuta and Fukunaga Shigeyuki (men's) for their hard work to nurture the Filipino kendo athletes.

"Congratulations in advance as you bring glory to our beloved Philippines," President Marcos said.

The Philippines will be represented by Emerson Sychingiok, Michael Logarta, Matthew Arce, Paul Minoza, Steven Canete, Ralph Lee, Elvin Villarama and Inoue Yuta (men's team) and Denise Verastigue-Gonzales, Reida-Jade Renovilla, Fides Desacada-Tatlonghari, Loida Estanilla-Inting, Verna Chiongbian, Melduen Castillon and Xylia Alzate (women's team).

"Team morale is high and they have shaken off some of the nervousness of competing in the worlds for the first time," UKFP president Kristopher Inting said in a statement.

Kendo, centuries-old Japanese fencing and the queen of martial arts, is a practice which, due to its intrinsic characteristics, presents multiple aspects and facets, according to the UKFP.

It can be considered from time to time as a training discipline, sporting or recreational activity, study and application of combat strategy, form of physical education or spiritual discipline, it added.

The Philippine Consulate General in Milan led by Consul General Elmer Cato also expressed support to the Filipino athletes. (PNA)