Davao City's Sydney and Chino Sy-Tancontian, currently based in Manila, made a triumphant return to their hometown to support the Pilipinas Sambo Federation in hosting the 2026 Sambo Referee and Coaches Technical Seminar and National Open Championship. The event concluded on Tuesday evening, March 17, at the Sta. Ana National High School covered court, marking a significant milestone for the sport during the 89th Araw ng Dabaw festivities.
Grassroots Development and International Standards
The three-day tournament was meticulously designed to enhance grassroots development, introducing local athletes, coaches, and referees to the international standards of Sambo, often described as the "art of self-defense without weapons." Workshops were led by expert trainers from Indonesia and Malaysia, ensuring participants gained valuable insights into global best practices.
Personal Significance for the Siblings
For Sydney and Chino, the event held deep personal meaning. Both began their athletic careers in judo at previous Araw ng Dabaw tournaments before transitioning to Sambo. Organizing this competition felt like a full-circle moment, reconnecting them with their roots and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Sydney expressed her fulfillment, stating, "It's very fulfilling to see my younger self in all of them. I'm very happy that many supported the event, and I'm excited to introduce sambo to them." Meanwhile, Chino, who is training for the judo Asian Games and Olympic qualifiers, emphasized the potential of Davao's youth. "I started in tournaments like this. I know these events are one of the steps that help athletes grow. There's a lot of potential here in Davao for the national sambo team," he noted.
Discovering Emerging Talent
During the National Open, the siblings identified promising young athletes. Sydney highlighted, "We spotted about five or six youth athletes who could compete. Through this, they get discovered and gain more experience." This discovery process underscores the event's role in nurturing future champions and expanding the sport's reach in the region.
Overcoming Challenges and Future Aspirations
While organizing the event presented new challenges, the Tancontians found the effort immensely rewarding. "We're very happy to see everyone's performance," they shared. Their personal journeys continue to inspire others. Sydney, who is set to receive a citation at the Women in Sports Awards, reflected on her evolution from a young dreamer to a national athlete. "I'm very happy and blessed to receive a citation, and it's very special. Every year feels special for me," she said.
Chino outlined his long-term vision, adding, "My goal is to compete in the Olympics and eventually share my knowledge, especially here in Davao. I really want to return to my hometown, where I grew up and developed my skills."
Raising the Sport's Profile
The seminar ensured that local referees and coaches aligned with international standards, elevating Sambo's profile in Davao City. Sydney hinted at another major event on the horizon, "We can host the Kadayawan Sambo Championship, hopefully in August." This initiative promises to further integrate the sport into the city's cultural and sporting calendar.
The Pilipinas Sambo Federation, led by president Paolo Tancontian, organized the event, with support from the Davao City government through the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office. It was presented as a key component of the city's 89th Araw ng Dabaw sports festival, highlighting the collaborative efforts to promote athletic excellence and community engagement.
