Sambo Makes Symbolic Return to Davao for National Championships and Technical Seminar
The art of self-defense without weapons, known as sambo, made a triumphant and symbolic return to Davao City, where it first established its foothold in the Philippines. On Sunday, March 15, 2026, athletes, referees, and coaches gathered at the Sta. Ana National High School covered court for the opening of the 2026 National Sambo Referee and Coaches Technical Seminar and Sambo National Open Championships. This significant event was held as part of the 89th Araw ng Dabaw celebration, drawing participants from various regions across Luzon and Mindanao to strengthen the sport's development nationwide.
Historic Gathering Marks Milestone for Philippine Sambo
Paolo Tancontian, president of the Pilipinas Sambo Federation Inc. and a Dabawenyo, presented a plaque of appreciation to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman John Patrick Gregorio during the opening ceremony. Tancontian described the gathering as an important milestone for sambo in the country, especially after several years without major competitions. The federation formally opened the National Sambo Championship for Araw ng Dabaw 2026, revitalizing the sport in its original Philippine home.
World-class Dabawenyo sambo siblings Chino and Sydney Sy Tancontian added vibrant color to the opening program, showcasing local talent. School principal Wileto I. Rosal welcomed the athletes, officials, and guests, expressing gratitude for their support in fostering the sport's continued growth.
International Expertise and Government Support Highlight Event
The technical seminar featured international officials from Malaysia and Indonesia, who guided participants through the fundamentals of sambo. This included detailed instruction on competition rules, advanced techniques, and proper conduct for both referees and athletes, aiming to elevate the standard of the sport in the Philippines.
Representing the Davao City government, Michael Denton Aportadera, officer-in-charge of the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office (SDD-CMO), emphasized the event's importance for local athletes and sports development. "This is a very historical moment for the city of Davao," Aportadera stated, welcoming visiting participants and international referees. He thanked sports leaders and organizers for promoting sambo and encouraged athletes to seize the opportunity to learn and compete, noting, "This is the first step for Davao, Mindanao, and the entire Philippines to gather everyone in the sport of sambo."
PSC Chairman Stresses Unity and Support Through Sports
PSC chairman John Patrick Gregorio, who once lived in Davao in the late 1990s, addressed the participants, underscoring the unifying role of sports. "Sports is good news. Sports are peace. Sports make people happy," Gregorio said, highlighting how athletic competition brings communities together and uplifts spirits. He reaffirmed the commission's commitment to supporting athletes and strengthening sports programs across the nation, adding, "When it is your passion, when it is the sport that you love, it needs all the support and assistance coming from the Philippine Sports Commission."
The seminar and championship are designed to sharpen the technical knowledge of referees and coaches while providing athletes with a national platform to showcase their skills. This event not only celebrates Davao's rich sporting heritage but also paves the way for future growth and excellence in Philippine sambo.
