By Jean Malanum
MANILA – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), in cooperation with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Philippine Judo Federation, Inc. (PJFI), will hold a seminar program this weekend at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
The TMG program, aimed at fostering international sports development and cultural exchange through judo, features lectures and training to be conducted by Tokyo Judo Federation President and renowned national coach Matagoro Toriumi, two-time world champion Yusuyuki Muneta, silver medalist Megumi Tachimoto, and Tokyo Boys Judo Team head coach Junri Omori.
Muneta ruled the men’s +100kg category at the 2003 Osaka World Championships and the Open category at the 2007 edition in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He won the Asian Games in 2006 (Doha, Qatar) and in 2002 (Busan, South Korea) and the Asian Championships in 2000 (Osaka, Japan).
“We are honored to collaborate with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government on this project. This initiative not only elevates the level of judo in the Philippines but also promotes cultural exchange and camaraderie through the spirit of sportsmanship,” PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann said in a statement released to the media on Thursday.
Over 200 athletes and coaches are expected to benefit from the expertise and insights of the Japanese coaches and athletes, enhancing their skills and fostering a deeper appreciation for the sport.
“This initiative not only strengthens the sporting ties between our two nations but also serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation that exist between Japan and the Philippines,” Bachmann added.
The PSC had previously partnered with the TMG in the Asian Junior Sports Exchange Games, sending the Philippine junior badminton and table tennis teams to Tokyo last August. (PNA)
