DEFTAC, Southeast Asia’s pioneering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts elite group, celebrated three decades of excellence in the sport at the Hilton by recently honoring those who have become champions in the world and Asian tournaments, as well as the people behind the organization and the contributors.
The world champions include Brielle Bartolome, Thiago Bartolome, Claudia Lepiten, CheskaLepiten, Tessa Joson, Ali Joson, Tomas Joson, Ethan Ramos, Uno Ordona, Julian Santos, Franco del Pilar, Aielle Aguilar, BastiDela Cruz, Althea Brion, Princess Reuma, and Yani Lopez.
The Asian champions include Alex Lee, FierreAfan, Andrea Ocampo, Charlie Ratcliff, Annie Parungao, Lucas Aguilar, Miguel Gutierrez, Lucas Holganza, Joaquin Marte, Ella Olaso, Yani Lopez, and Abby Balisme.
“From humble beginnings to world-class achievements, we have stood together —disciplining bodies, sharpening minds, and building the strongest bonds of brotherhood,” DEFTAC founder Alvin Aguilar said.
“Thirty years on, we are not just celebrating our past — we are igniting the future,” he added.
The organization also honored its founding members, dedicated coaches and outstanding chapters.
High on the list of founding members who were honored and presented with a symbolic ring representing their affiliation and achievements were Alvin Lee, Joel Yaptinchay, Pichon Garcia, among others.
Lee is a 2nd-degree Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Chapter Head of DEFTAC Victoria Sports in Quezon City, while Yaptinchay is also a 2nd-degree Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and Chapter Head of DEFTAC La Union.
