San Jose West Central School (SJWCS) in San Jose City, Nueva Ecija, had a remarkable showing at two recent arnis tournaments.
In the 8th Lakan Arnis tournament at Vedasto R. Santiago High School in San Miguel Bulacan on January 13, 2024, the school’s students secured impressive medals.
Grade 6 student Jaden Matthew Avillanoza won a silver medal in the anyo double weapon 11-12 years old category. Kurt Benedict Rafaí«l, a grade 5 student, earned a gold medal in the anyo single weapon 11-12 category, while 5amara Keissha Chavez Laureta, also in grade 5, achieved gold in the anyo sword & dagger 11-12 category.
Following this success, the SJWCS team continued their winning streak at the 2024 Panagbenga Invitational Arnis Encounter held at CCDC Gymnasium in La Trinidad Baguio City on March 2 to 3, 2024. Here, grade 5 student Joana Carla Lagmay secured a bronze medal in the padded stick 11 to 12 years old category, while Samara Keissha Chavez Laureta, also in grade 5, secured back-to-back gold medals in the same category.
Despite being newcomers to the arnis sport, the SJWCS team’s outstanding performance delighted tournament manager and former coach, Rosemaríe Tullabang.
Both SJWCS coach Rachel Mariano and trainer Bonnie Pascua Balagso expressed satisfaction with the kids’ performance. Balagso noted, “I know they can do much better. I have some stuff to teach and discuss with the team because I know there’s a lot of room for improvement.”
Looking ahead, the SJWCS team is gearing up for the next arnis tournament, part of their preparation for the upcoming CLRAA meet scheduled for April 27 to May 3, 2024.
