BY ALDRIN JAMES BOHOL, JADE GUMBAN AND ROCHELLE UBAUB/DNSC Interns
THE 21st City Council on Tuesday recognized nine Davaoeño athletes who will compete for spots in the Philippine team at the 2026 PSC National Wushu Championships at the Rizal Memorial Sports Coliseum in Manila from April 11 to 18, 2026.
In his speech, Councilor Al Ryan S. Alejandre highlighted the significance of the biggest wushu competition in the Philippines, providing a platform for the country’s finest athletes to compete and earn spots on the national team for international competitions.
“Davao City continues to rise as a strong force in this sport,” Alejandre said, noting that the Davao City Wushu Sanda Team recently reclaimed its place among the country’s best by finishing second overall in the Batang Pinoy 2025 National Championships.
The nine wushu athlete representatives are:
– Anthon Villarba, Palarong Pambansa Silver Medalist
– Clarens Abear Villacastin, Palarong Pambansa Champion
– Vince Dominguiano, Philippine National Game Champion
– John Chris Bacalso, DAVRAA Champion
– Johanna Jeiel Barbero, Batang Pinoy Champion, Palarong Pambansa Silver Medalist and Youth World Bronze Medalist in Junior World Sanda
– Ivy Ledama, Batang Pinoy Champion and Palarong Pambansa Champion
– Stephanie Clouie T. Cardiono
– Bryan A. Sardanas
– Richard Paul M. Deligero
“This achievement reflects not only their talent, but also their rigorous training, competitive spirit, and passion for the sport,” Alejandre said.
Together with their coaches, the athletes have completed weeks of disciplined training while managing their personal responsibilities.
“They are now ready to compete on the national stage representing Davao City starting this Saturday,” Coach Arnel Barbero stated.
