Two Cordillerans to make history as part of Philippines' first World Armwrestling team

SPORTS

Baguio City, Philippines – Two young athletes from the Cordillera are set to make history after earning spots on Team Philippines, which will compete in the country's first-ever participation in the 47th World Armwrestling Federation (WAF) World Armwrestling Championships and the 28th World Para Armwrestling Championships in New Delhi, India, from October 26 to November 7.

Organized by the World Armwrestling Federation (WAF), the championships are considered the highest level of international competition in the sport, bringing together elite arm wrestlers from more than 60 countries to compete for world titles across various age, weight, and para-sport divisions.

This year's tournament is expected to gather more than 1,700 athletes, coaches, officials, and delegates from around the world.

In a Facebook post, Armwrestling Philippines announced that the event marks the country's historic debut in the prestigious international competition.

To prepare for the milestone, the organization selected what it described as the country's strongest athletes with the greatest potential to bring home medals.

“This milestone event marks the first time the Republic of the Philippines will be officially represented on the grandest global stage in the sport. To ensure a competitive campaign, Armwrestling Philippines has meticulously selected the country's strongest athletes with the highest potential to secure medals in our historic debut,” the organization stated.

Among those chosen are two Igorot athletes from the Cordillera—Israel Ekid, who will compete in the Youth 70-kilogram division, and 15-year-old Mhart Dumpit, who will see action in the Sub-Junior Above 70-kilogram category.

Joining them on the national team are Josh Nicholas, who will also compete in the Youth 70-kilogram division, and Mark Luis Ben, who will represent the Philippines in the Senior 100-kilogram division.

The selection of Ekid and Dumpit not only marks a milestone in their sporting careers but also highlights the growing presence of Cordilleran athletes in emerging international sports. Their inclusion in the country's first-ever World Armwrestling team underscores the region's continuing contribution to Philippine sports and offers inspiration to aspiring athletes across the Cordillera.

As the Philippines prepares for its historic debut, the championships also represent a major step in the development of armwrestling in the country, opening new opportunities for Filipino athletes to compete and excel on the world stage.