Written by Edelyn Aghan and Eunice Fernandez (UB Cardinals)
The 116th Baguio Day National Invitational Arnis Tournament stood as one of the grandest sporting highlights of the city’s founding anniversary celebration. Held on September 20 and 21, 2025, at the Baguio City National High School gymnasium, the tournament drew athletes, coaches, and supporters from across the city, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also the enduring cultural heritage of Arnis as the Philippines’ national martial art and sport.
The competition was organized by BBLADES Incorporated, spearheaded by Mr. Karl Mico Alangui, with the support of Mr. Andre Dean Foma-eg, Ms. Gabrielle Foma-eg, and Mr. Michael Anayasan. Their leadership ensured the smooth flow of the two-day event, which welcomed an impressive 725 entries, 34 teams, and 538 participants from various schools. The scale of participation highlighted the growing popularity and relevance of Arnis in the national sporting community.
The University of Baguio delivered an outstanding performance across divisions. In the Juniors Division, under the guidance of coach Bernardo Torres III, UB athletes captured the overall championship by securing 5 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze medal. Their success underscored the strong grassroots program of the university, which continues to nurture young athletes into disciplined competitors.
In the Seniors Division, the level of competition intensified, with seasoned athletes displaying remarkable skill, endurance, and tactical execution. The UB Cardinals Arnis Team, led by team captain Takuya Wada and guided by coach Angelyn Datuin, emerged as the dominant force of the tournament. They earned the overall championship after amassing 10 gold, 5 silver, and 5 bronze medals, a testament to the team’s rigorous training and unwavering commitment.
Beyond the awards, the tournament also emphasized values essential to sportsmanship. Participants exhibited discipline, respect, and camaraderie throughout the matches. For these student athletes, the competition was not solely about claiming victories but about testing their limits, building confidence, and honoring the Filipino cultural identity embodied in Arnis.
The 116th Baguio Day National Invitational Arnis Tournament ended with a strong sense of pride and achievement, both for the athletes and the city. It reminded the community that sporting events are not only platforms for competition but also opportunities to strengthen unity, preserve traditions, and inspire the next generation.
As the echoes of combat sticks and cheers faded from the gymnasium, the legacy of the tournament remained clear. The University of Baguio had proven its excellence once again, and Arnis continued to stand as a symbol of national pride, discipline, and resilience.
