BENGUET TEAM HAULS 16 MEDALS, NAMED 2ND OVERALL CHAMPION IN REGIONAL MUAY THAI

A TEAM of 20 martial art athletes from Benguet emerged as the 2nd over-all champion in the recently concluded Regional Muay Thai held in Olongapo City. In the July 13-17 Muay Thai Championship, the Benguet Team garnered 10 gold medals, 5 silver medals, and a bronze medal or a total of 16 medals naming them the 2nd best team out of 18 competing provinces Luzon-wide. Martial artists representing Taytay, Rizal were announced Champion after leading with only one gold medal over Team Benguet. The team led by their head coaches Zaidi Laruan and Jun Benito paid a courtesy visit to Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas Monday morning, July 25, to present their medals and plaque of recognition. Governor Diclas congratulated the team on their victory and on lifting the name of the province high in the field of sports.

Laruan said the team is composed of martial artists from different groups, namely, Team Lakay, Team Kafagway, Team Faith, Muay Boran Team, and Evolution Team. The Office of the Governor has been actively supporting Benguet athletes as it recognizes the contribution of sports not only to youth development, but also to the promotion of good values such as team-work and self-discipline. Further, Governor Diclas said sports continue to mold Benguet prides as they represent the province in national and international competitions serving as inspiration to their fellow iBenguet.