JKA PHILIPPINES, THE TOURNAMENT AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE
1. What makes the August 27–30 international tournament in Davao particularly important for JKA Philippines this year?
This is one of JKA Philippines’ most important international tournaments to date. It introduces an expanded format involving 28 national and international dojo teams, with participation from Japan, Indonesia, and Mongolia.
The event demonstrates the growing strength of our dojo chapters, instructors, officers, members, sponsors, and stakeholders, as well as our collective capability to organize a major international karate event efficiently and professionally.
It is also the first international JKA event of this scale to be hosted in Davao, bringing together a larger number of participants and delegates while upholding the technical and organizational standards of the Japan Karate Association.
Another historic highlight is the presence of three distinguished instructors and officials from JKA World Federation Honbu in Tokyo: Koichiro Okuma, Shihan; Tatsuya Naka, Shihan; and Koji Chubachi, Sensei.
The tournament also provides an international platform for emerging young karate athletes and supports the further development of the University of Southeastern Philippines dojo chapters as a center for JKA training, affiliation, officiating, leadership, and membership development in Davao Region and Mindanao.
2. What message does JKA Philippines want to send to the international karate community by hosting this event in Davao?
By hosting the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku and Tournament 2026 in Davao, we are sending a clear message of global unity, grassroots development, and our ability to organize world-class karate events.
It demonstrates the Philippines’ growing stature in traditional martial arts while promoting sports tourism and international friendship.
It also reinforces the unifying philosophy that “The World Is Our Dojo.” Our focus is not only on competition but also on developing the next generation of athletes through discipline, character, and lifelong learning.
3. How has this tournament grown from previous years in terms of participation, international representation, and level of competition?
The tournament has evolved beyond traditional country-versus-country competition into a broader international gathering involving dojo teams, instructors, officials, and talented Shotokan karate practitioners from different regions.
Its increasing international participation reflects the continued growth and recognition of JKA Philippines.
4. Which countries and international delegations are expected to participate, and what does their presence mean for Philippine karate?
International delegations from Japan, Mongolia, and Indonesia are expected to participate, bringing strong and highly competitive teams.
Their presence gives Filipino karateka valuable international exposure and demonstrates the growing recognition of the Philippines within the global JKA community.
5. Why was Davao chosen as the venue for this international gathering?
Davao was chosen because of its growing reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events, supported by improving facilities, strong local institutions, hospitality, and the region’s continuing economic and social development.
The city provides an excellent environment for bringing together athletes, officials, instructors, families, and international visitors.
6. What would you like international participants to remember about Davao and the Philippines after the tournament is over?
We hope international participants will remember the warmth of Davaoeño hospitality, the vibrant local culture, the strong support of our stakeholders and local government, and most importantly, the friendships formed during the event.
Beyond scores and medals, we want them to remember the shared sense of community and the lasting connections created here in Davao.
JKA PHILIPPINES AND INTERNATIONAL KARATE
7. Where does JKA Philippines currently stand within the international Japan Karate Association community?
JKA Philippines holds a strong and steadily growing position within the international community governed by the Japan Karate Association World Federation.
Hosting the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku and Tournament 2026 at the University of Southeastern Philippines in Davao demonstrates our growing grassroots network, organizational capability, and ability to host international-standard JKA events.
8. How important is the Philippines in the continuing growth of traditional Shotokan karate in Southeast Asia?
The Philippines plays an increasingly important role in preserving and expanding traditional Shotokan karate in Southeast Asia.
Through international training camps, tournaments, membership development, and the continued expansion of dojo networks, JKA Philippines contributes significantly to strengthening traditional karate throughout the region.
9. What distinguishes JKA karate from other karate organizations and competitive systems?
The Japan Karate Association is distinguished by its strict adherence to traditional Shotokan principles and standards, its scientific approach to body mechanics and technique, and its philosophy that karate is not merely a competitive sport but a lifelong discipline for personal development.
10. How does JKA Philippines balance international competition with JKA’s traditional emphasis on discipline, character, etiquette, and lifelong development?
JKA Philippines treats competition as a platform for testing character, discipline, technique, and personal development rather than as the sole purpose of karate training.
Winning is important, but how a karateka conducts himself or herself—with respect, humility, discipline, and integrity—is equally important.
11. Do you see the Philippines becoming a major regional destination for international JKA tournaments, seminars, and training camps?
Yes. The Philippines is well-positioned to become a major regional hub for JKA tournaments, seminars, training camps, and examinations because of its growing membership, active dojo network, hosting experience, and strong institutional support.
12. What opportunities could this tournament create for stronger cooperation between JKA Philippines and JKA organizations in Japan, Asia, Europe, and the Americas?
An international tournament of this scale creates opportunities for technical exchange, closer cooperation among instructors and officials, greater consistency in judging standards, and stronger relationships among JKA organizations worldwide.
It also promotes cultural diplomacy and international friendship through traditional karate.
FILIPINO ATHLETES
13. How would you describe the current level of Filipino JKA competitors compared with international athletes?
Filipino JKA competitors have developed into highly competitive athletes capable of performing at an international level.
Their continued participation in major competitions gives them valuable experience and demonstrates that Filipino karateka can compete confidently alongside strong international athletes.
14. What are the particular strengths of Filipino karate athletes?
Filipino karate athletes are known for their agility, quick footwork, speed, determination, and tactical adaptability.
Their ability to move quickly, close distance effectively, and react decisively can give them an advantage in high-level competition.
15. Are there Philippine competitors participating this year whom you believe have the potential to become internationally recognized?
Yes. We have several Filipino competitors who have demonstrated the discipline, talent, and commitment necessary to develop into internationally recognized athletes.
Events like this provide them with the exposure and experience needed to advance to the next level.
16. What preparation have Filipino athletes undergone for this tournament?
Our Filipino athletes have undergone intensive technical training, physical conditioning, tactical preparation, and mental preparation.
International competition requires not only physical strength but also discipline, concentration, confidence, and emotional control.
17. Beyond winning medals, what do you want young Filipino karateka to learn from competing against athletes from other countries?
Beyond medals, we want young Filipino karateka to develop resilience, self-confidence, respect, international friendship, and the ability to learn from different cultures and competitors.
International competition should make them better athletes and, more importantly, better individuals.
18. What would it mean for JKA Philippines if Filipino competitors achieve major victories against some of the strongest international delegations?
Major victories against strong international competitors would demonstrate that Filipino karateka can compete at the highest levels of traditional Shotokan karate.
It would also inspire younger athletes, strengthen our dojo network, increase membership, and show aspiring karateka that there is a genuine pathway from local training to international success.
YOUTH, DISCIPLINE AND CHARACTER
19. Karate is often described as more than a sport. What values does JKA hope to instill in young Filipinos through karate?
The Japan Karate Association views karate as more than a sport or point-scoring competition. It is a way of life founded on discipline, respect, humility, perseverance, courage, and self-control.
Through JKA Philippines dojos, we hope to instill strong moral, mental, and physical values that will help young Filipinos become responsible and productive members of society.
20. At a time when young people face many distractions, how can karate help develop discipline, confidence, respect, and responsibility?
Karate provides a structured environment that helps young people develop focus despite the many digital and social distractions surrounding them.
Simple traditions such as bowing when entering the dojo, showing respect to instructors, and respecting training partners teach humility, courtesy, discipline, and responsibility.
21. What do you tell parents who are considering enrolling their children in karate?
I tell parents that karate offers their children much more than physical self-defense.
It develops discipline, concentration, confidence, respect, responsibility, and perseverance. Structured training teaches children how to focus and remain committed in a world filled with distractions.
22. How does JKA philosophy teach competitors to deal with victory and defeat?
JKA philosophy teaches us that an opponent is not an enemy but a training partner who helps us improve.
Whether we win or lose, we must show respect, humility, and gratitude. Victory should never produce arrogance, and defeat should never destroy our determination.
23. Is producing champions the ultimate objective of JKA Philippines, or is developing character equally important?
Developing character is one of the highest objectives of JKA Philippines—if not the most important.
Championships and medals are valuable, but they are tools for testing ourselves. The ultimate goal is to develop disciplined, humble, responsible, and principled individuals.
24. What does the traditional karate principle that “the ultimate aim of karate lies in the perfection of character” mean to you personally?
To me, it means using karate training throughout life to develop inner calm, humility, discipline, courage, and self-control.
Karate is not ultimately about defeating another person; it is about continuously improving and mastering oneself.
DAVAO AND PHILIPPINE SPORTS TOURISM
25. Can international karate events such as this contribute to sports tourism and the international promotion of Davao?
Absolutely. International karate events can significantly contribute to sports tourism by attracting athletes, coaches, officials, families, and supporters from different places.
Their presence generates economic activity while giving Davao greater international visibility as a capable and welcoming destination for major sporting events.
26. What can visiting athletes, coaches, officials, and families expect from Filipino hospitality during their stay?
They can expect genuine warmth, generosity, friendship, and the kind of Filipino hospitality where visitors arrive as guests and leave feeling like family.
Filipinos naturally welcome visitors with sincerity, good food, friendship, and a strong sense of community.
27. Could Davao eventually become a regular destination for major international JKA competitions and training events?
Yes. Davao has strong potential to become a regular destination for major JKA competitions, seminars, and training camps.
Facilities such as the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium, together with continued development of sports infrastructure in the region, provide a strong foundation for future international events.
28. What economic and community benefits can international martial arts tournaments bring to host cities?
International martial arts tournaments create direct economic benefits for host communities.
Visitors stay in hotels, dine in restaurants, use local transportation, shop locally, and support tourism-related businesses. At the same time, these events promote cultural exchange, community pride, and international friendship.
LEADERSHIP AND PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE
29. As President of JKA Philippines, what does hosting an international event of this scale personally mean to you?
Hosting an international JKA event of this scale represents a significant milestone for Philippine karate.
It places Filipino karateka on the international stage alongside respected masters and practitioners from Japan and other countries while strengthening cultural exchange, mutual respect, and lasting international friendships.
30. What has been the greatest challenge in bringing this event together?
The greatest challenge has been coordinating the many logistical and organizational requirements involved in bringing together regional dojo chapters, international delegations, government institutions, sponsors, volunteers, officials, and distinguished instructors from JKA World Federation Honbu in Tokyo.
An event of this magnitude requires teamwork, discipline, communication, and careful preparation.
31. Who are the organizations, volunteers, instructors, sponsors, and supporters who deserve recognition for making the event possible?
We sincerely recognize the support and cooperation of the Philippine Sports Commission; Kadayawan Festival Security Plan Assessment Team; University of Southeastern Philippines; City Government of Davao; Office of Vice President Sara Duterte; Office of Senator Bong Go; Office of Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte; Davao City Sports Development Division; INGEN FUEL; JKA World Federation Honbu in Tokyo; JKA Philippines; JKA Mongolia; JKA Indonesia; our dojo chapters; instructors; volunteers; members; and all stakeholders who contributed to making this event possible.
32. What moment during the August 27–30 event are you personally most looking forward to?
I am particularly looking forward to the intensive technical training and kumite development sessions.
These sessions allow karateka to deepen their understanding of traditional Shotokan techniques, strengthen their fundamentals, and learn directly from highly respected JKA instructors.
33. What accomplishment of JKA Philippines are you most proud of today?
I am proud of our continuing development of students through structured training, belt promotions, and kyu gradings.
I am equally proud of the instructors who have developed into leaders, established their own dojos, and helped expand traditional Shotokan karate throughout the Philippines.
34. Where would you like to see JKA Philippines five years from now?
Five years from now, I would like JKA Philippines to have a much broader network of certified dojos across every major region of the country.
I would also like to see stronger partnerships with schools, more opportunities for young people to learn karate, and new training centers in provinces where traditional Shotokan programs are still limited.
SPONSORSHIP AND INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT
35. How important is private-sector sponsorship in developing Philippine karate and allowing Filipino athletes to compete internationally?
Private-sector sponsorship is extremely important because government funding alone cannot always cover the substantial costs associated with international travel, specialized training, equipment, athlete development, and hosting major events.
Corporate partners can play a meaningful role in helping Filipino athletes reach the international stage.
36. What kind of partnership is JKA Philippines seeking from corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, and international organizations?
JKA Philippines seeks partnerships that support youth development, athlete training, international participation, community outreach, education, and the promotion of traditional Shotokan karate.
We welcome organizations that share our commitment to discipline, character formation, healthy living, community development, and international friendship.
37. What benefits can a company gain by supporting JKA Philippines and its international programs?
Companies supporting JKA Philippines can gain valuable brand visibility, community goodwill, and opportunities to connect with athletes, families, martial arts practitioners, and international participants.
Sponsors may also receive visibility through event banners, promotional materials, digital campaigns, media coverage, and press releases, while associating their brands with discipline, youth development, sportsmanship, and healthy lifestyles.
38. Could stronger corporate support allow more talented Filipino athletes—especially young athletes with limited resources—to compete internationally?
Absolutely. Stronger corporate support can directly help talented Filipino athletes from financially challenged backgrounds cover the costs of training, equipment, competition fees, and international travel.
Talent should never be prevented from reaching the international stage simply because an athlete lacks financial resources.
39. What would you say directly to Philippine and international companies considering becoming long-term partners of JKA Philippines?
Partnering with JKA Philippines means investing in youth development, discipline, character formation, international friendship, and the future of traditional Shotokan karate in the Philippines.
Your support does more than sponsor a tournament—it helps create opportunities and develop future generations of disciplined Filipino athletes and leaders.
STRONG PRESS-RELEASE QUOTES
40. If you could describe this international tournament in one sentence, what would you say?
“This tournament is a global stage where nations come together through the discipline and passion of karate, united by friendship, respect, and the pursuit of excellence.”
41. What does it mean for a Filipino athlete to wear the Philippine flag while competing in an international JKA tournament?
“To wear the Philippine flag in an international JKA tournament is to carry the honor of the nation, the sacrifices behind every hour of training, and the discipline of Filipino karate onto the world stage.”
42. What do you want every foreign competitor arriving in Davao to know about JKA Philippines?
“We want every international competitor to know that JKA Philippines is deeply committed to the highest traditional standards of Shotokan Karate-Do while welcoming the world with genuine Filipino friendship and hospitality.”
43. What do you hope a ten-year-old Filipino watching this tournament will feel when he or she sees Filipino karate athletes competing internationally?
“I want every Filipino child watching this tournament to feel proud and to believe that, through discipline, hard work, and perseverance, international greatness is also within their reach.”
For our long-term vision, we also hope to establish and operate a permanent JKA Philippines arena, develop thousands of members and hundreds of dojo chapters nationwide, and eventually bring a major international JKA world event such as the Gichin Funakoshi World Cup to the Philippines.
44. What would constitute success for this tournament even beyond medals and trophies?
“Success goes beyond medals and trophies. True success is measured by personal growth, stronger friendships, deeper community connections, and the lasting positive impact the tournament leaves on everyone involved.”
45. What is your message to all athletes entering the competition on August 27–30?
“Remember the countless hours of training that brought you here. Give your best in every moment on the tatami, compete with courage, and always treat your opponents, referees, instructors, and coaches with respect.”
46. When the final match has ended, and the international delegations return home, what do you hope the world will remember about JKA Philippines, Davao, and this tournament?
“I hope the world remembers the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku and Tournament 2026 in Davao as a powerful celebration of discipline, enduring friendship, world-class karate, Filipino hospitality, and the rich cultural spirit of Mindanao.”
FIVE PRIORITY ANSWERS FOR THE MAIN PRESS RELEASE
1. What makes the August 27–30 international tournament in Davao particularly important for JKA Philippines and Philippine karate?
“This tournament demonstrates the Philippines’ growing prominence as a regional and international center for traditional Shotokan karate and proves our ability to bring together distinguished JKA masters, international delegations, and Filipino karateka in a world-class event.”
2. What does the participation of international delegations tell us about the Philippines’ growing position in the global JKA community?
“The participation of international delegations reflects the growing confidence of the global JKA community in the Philippines and our ability to organize international-standard training, competition, grading, examination, and officiating activities.”
3. Beyond medals, what values do you want Filipino athletes—especially young karateka—to gain from competing internationally?
“Beyond medals, international competition teaches young Filipino karateka discipline, resilience, humility, mutual respect, self-confidence, and the understanding that true success comes from continually improving oneself.”
4. How can this international tournament help position Davao and the Philippines as a destination for major martial arts and sports events?
“This international tournament demonstrates Davao’s organizational capability, facilities, security, hospitality, and community support, strengthening the city and the Philippines as credible destinations for major international martial arts and sporting events.”
5. When this tournament concludes, what do you want the international karate community to remember about JKA Philippines and the Philippines?
“We want the international karate community to remember the Philippines as a vibrant home of traditional Shotokan discipline, genuine sportsmanship, world-class hospitality, and Filipino karateka who can host, officiate, and compete at elite international levels while honoring the highest standards of the Japan Karate Association.”
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