In a stunning display of athleticism and skill, the DMMMSU Arnis Team, under the guidance of coach Rissa Banana and trainer Katherine Carino, took the competition by storm, clinching an astounding five gold, three silver, and nine bronze medals at the 2023 Philippine Open Arnis Championship held in Robinsons Place Angeles City last February 12, 2023.

Exhibiting incredible form and technique, Angelica Rose Apelado led the DMMMSU Arnis Team’s charge in the Non-Traditional Anyo Category, sweeping her opponents and clinching two gold medals for both the Individual Double Weapon and Duo Double Weapon with teammate Albe Christian Marzan. Showing no signs of backing down, Marzan exhibited his own mastery of the art, earning a solo gold medal in the same category.

In the Full Contact Event Padded Stick Category the team made their winning streak with Jaya Pajarillo emerging as the champion in the 60kg above (women) division, while Christian Liclican claimed a gold medal of his own for the 60 kg below (men) showcasing their combined incredible strength and skill. Likewise, Melanie Hilarion and Ashanty Carlos each earned a bronze medal in the 50kg below (women) division, while Aubrey Ellaine Bascos claimed a bronze in the 55kg below (women) division. Not to be outdone, Albe Christian Marzan and John Lloyd Lumanog proved their mettle on the mat, executing precise strikes and techniques to earn well-deserved bronze medals in their respective categories.

In the Full Contact Event Live Stick Category, the team once again proved their dominance. Melanie Hilarion secured a silver medal in the 50kg below (women) division, while Aubrey Ellaine Bascos and Jaya Pajarillo each earned a bronze and silver medal, respectively, in their respective divisions. John Loyd Lumanog and Christian Liclican claimed bronze and silver medals in the 50kg below and 60kg below (men) divisions. Elyah Blanquera and John Lester Mejia rounded out the team’s impressive performance with a bronze medal each in the 60kg above (men) division.

Coach Rissa Banana was thrilled with the team’s individual performances, praising each athlete for their hard work and dedication. “I am so proud of each one of them,” she said. “Their performances today are a true testament to their skill and determination, and I know that they will continue to achieve great things in the future.”

Trainer Katherine Carino added, “The DMMMSU Arnis Team proved today that they are among the best in the country. Their individual performances are truly outstanding, and I have no doubt that they will continue to excel in the years to come.” (by Zander Christopher Mercado)