Second leg of PFA Open Tournament on tap this weekend

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

Fencers return to competitive action this weekend as the second leg of the Philippine Fencing Association (PFA) Open Division ranking tournaments commences inside the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Around 250 competitors are expected to take part, marking the continuation of the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships, which also hosted the first leg of the PFA Cadet and Junior rankings last March.

The season-opening leg of the PFA Open last February set an early tone for what has become a tightly contested year, featuring national team regulars and elite club fencers battling for early control of the standings. While several familiar names claimed podium finishes, results across foil, épée, and sabre highlighted just how slim the margins have become at the highest level.

Nearly all medalists from the first leg are back in action, alongside competitors coming off recent campaigns in the UAAP Fencing Championships, the domestic Cadet and Junior leg, and international events such as the FIE Cadet and Junior Championships in Brazil. Those tournaments saw new contenders emerge and sharpened several athletes ahead of this key Open Division stop.

Also returning are members of the Philippine Modern Pentathlon Team, who figured prominently in the opening leg. Leading that contingent are Samuel German and Princess Arpilon, both aiming to build on previous medal finishes.

Competition begins on Saturday with Men’s Épée, Women’s Foil, and Men’s Sabre, before concluding on Sunday with Women’s Épée, Men’s Foil, and Women’s Sabre, as valuable ranking points remain up for grabs.

Canlas Fencing sets the table in PFA Cadet/Junior opener

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

Members of the Canlas Fencing community stepped up and showed out in the first leg of the Philippines Fencing Association's ranking tournaments for Cadet and Junior fencers last March 21-22 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The competition, called the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships, took place days after the conclusion of the UAAP Fencing Championships that was held at the University of Makati.

Leading the charge for the club are the Canlas sisters, with Nina netting two gold medals in Women's Epee and Nicol securing a gold and a bronze in Women's Sabre. The former dispatch a couple of Oblation Fencing competitors, Sophia Carig in the semifinals, and Faith Olemos in the final to claim the Cadet crown on Saturday, before defeating fellow Red Warrior Mika Ragot in the semifinals and Justa Sandoval of UP in the final for Juniors the next day.

As for the latter, she managed to defeat Liah Gillana in the semifinals, 15-7, avenging her defeat to the UST HS standout in the UAAP Girls Sabre semifinal a week earlier. Nicol then dispatched CF teammate Gabrielle Wynter Ang in the final, 15-12 for the Cadet crown.

She almost matched her sister's feat, but lost to Nadelle Turiano in the semifinals, 15-7. The Canadian-based fencer topped the Junior crown with a 15-13 win over Arianna Tiu of Republic Fencing.

All-CF match-ups also popped up on both days, with Oscar del Castillo defeating Franco Pediapco in the Cadet Men's Epee final, while it was a pure CF podium on Junior Men's Foil, with Nathan Canlas defeating Marcus Antonio Manuel in the final, 15-4. James Limuel Lim beat his fellow Red Warrior Brynt Gale for the bronze, 15-13.

Willa Galvez took advantage of Sophia Catantan incurring an injury during the knockout rounds to claim the Cadet Women's Foil title, dispatching Hagia Sophia del Castillo. With Catantan ruled out for the next day's Junior action, the younger del Castillo bounced back to top the action against Jodie Tan.

Other winners include Xavier's Gabriel Marcus Chua in Cadet Men's Foil, UST's Antonio Baydid in Cadet Men's Sabre, Matt Jacob Mayo in Junior Men's Epee, and Charles Babatio in Junior Men's Sabre.

The second leg of the Cadet and Junior ranking tournament is slated to take place next month.

National Team stalwarts set early pace in PFA Open tournament

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

The quest to determine the best Filipino fencers in the country took place last Valentine's weekend at the Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City, as the Philippine Fencing Association held the first leg of its ranking tournaments.

As expected, members of the national team pool led the way in the competition, managing to earn their way to most of the final spots for each division.

Saturday saw our SEA Games individual medalists step up to the plate, with silver medalist Noelito Jose Jr claim the Men's Epee title against Samuel German, who is part of the national pool for Modern Pentathlon, 15-13.

Bronze Medalist Janna Catantan claimed the Women's Foil crown by defeating her younger sister Sophia, 15-9, while Eunice Villanueva topped fellow bronze medalist CJ Concepcion, 15-12.

Meanwhile on Sunday, bronze medalist Nathaniel Perez topped surprise standout Michael Nicanor, 15-12, for the men's foil title. Nicanor has been active more as a coach/mentor for Republic Fencing, but managed to dispatch national team pool members Marcus Manuel and Shawn Nicollei Felipe respectively in the quarterfinals and semifinals to set up his match against Perez.

Jylyn Nicanor topped her fellow national team member Queenie Dalmacio for the Women's Sabre crown.

Complementing the performance of German for Modern Pentathlon, is Princess Honey Arpilon. The former SEA Games medalist pulled off upsets against fellow Ormoc natives and UAAP individual champions Alexa Larrazabal in the semifinal and Juliana Gomez in the final to claim the Women's Epee title with 15-11 scorelines.

Other noteworthy performances during the competition include La Salle standouts Edan Ensamtan and Kurt Maruquez, Aubrey Fernandez of UST, Canada-based Nadelle Turiano, and Victoria Ebdane, both of whom represent Canlas Fencing.

In addition to the action on the piste, the PFA also honored last year's top fencers in all three levels (MiniMe, Cadet and Junior, Open).

The NSA will hold its second leg on April 25-26 at Rizal Memorial Coliseum as the Open portion of the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships.

PFA set to host Junior and Cadet portion of the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships

James Limuel Lim c/o UAAP

The Philippine fencing community is gearing up for the return of one of its most anticipated youth competitions, with Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships launches its Junior & Cadet Edition on March 21 and 22, 2026 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

This annual tournament, which is part of the Philippine Fencing Association's ranking competitions for the year, honors the legacy of Dr. Celso L. Dayrit, a former Philippine Olympic Committee President and a major figure in the development of fencing in the Philippines and across Asia. His lifelong advocacy for grassroots and elite athlete development continues to inspire generations of Filipino fencers.

The opening leg of this year’s memorial series will bring together top Junior and Cadet fencers from fencing clubs, schools, and regional programs nationwide. Competitors will battle for ranking points and the opportunity to secure positions for upcoming national and international events.

With the tournament coming days after the holding of the successful UAAP Fencing Competition at the Makati Coliseum, it serves as a good opportunity for those who participated there to build on their experience.

Among those set to participate are both Juniors Rookies of the Year in Tin Morales and Matteo Canlas, as well as both Juniors MVPs in Sophia Catantan and James Limuel Lim, all of which will be part of the bumper contingent of the University of the East, which also includes Khiane Felipe, Brynt Gale, and Nina and Nicol Canlas.

Historic UAAP gold medalist for PAREF-Southridge Ecoy Fuentes is also set to join, as well as Liah Gilliana, who helped anchor the University of Santo Tomas to their first girls' division title.

Other fencers who recently took part in the UAAP that are expected to give it a go this weekend are the likes of Vito Coching and Martina Baccay of La Salle-Zobel, Gab Bunagan, Rana Rafael, Maiev Boy, Derek Perez and Matteo General of Ateneo, Antonio Baydid, Gasti Malinao, and Ian Miranda from UST, 

From the club scene, among those set to participate this weekend are the Del Castillo siblings Oscar and Hagia Sophia, Jacob Mayo, Franco Pediapco, Jodie Tan, Jada Divinagracia, Canada-based Nadelle Turiano, Tasha Martinez, Solana Trinidad, and Skye Ong.

Cadet action will take place on Saturday, starting at 9am, with Juniors taking to the piste on Sunday, also at the same time. 

Amatov Canlas departs from UE Fencing program

c/o UAAP

When the UAAP Fencing Championships concluded last Monday at the Makati Coliseum, the University of the East once again claimed three gold trophies, asserting its dominance in a sport the program helped build from scratch.

While UE did not sweep the event for the second consecutive season, the Red Warriors remain the benchmark in UAAP fencing—a legacy shaped almost entirely by one man: Amatov Canlas.

Nearly two decades since UE stormed the fencing scene, the men’s squad extended its reign to 12 straight titles, the women’s team secured its 16th championship, the girls’ team’s dynasty was trimmed to 11, and the boys’ unit stretched its league-leading streak to 14. All of this is a testament to Canlas’s vision and relentless dedication.

Monday, however, marked Canlas’s last day—at least for now—as head coach and program head of UE Fencing. Emotions ran high as he reflected on the journey.

“Sabi ko lang na ituloy nila ‘yung dynasty na sinimulan namin dahil hindi lang naman basta-basta ‘to eh. We started from nothing, malalim ‘yung ugat nung UE. Hindi ito basta-basta champion lang, talagang from sa ‘kin pa, hanggang sa ngayon, sa present, eh talagang natuloy ‘yung pagiging dynasty namin,” said the former Red Warrior standout.

“So, pag-alis ko, kung sino man ‘yung mga papalit na coach sa ‘kin, ituloy lang nila. And ang sabi ko, maging loyal sila sa UE kasi hindi rin naman sila magiging magaling kung hindi dahil sa UE. Kumbaga, pinaghirapan sila; hindi dumating nang magaling na eh; ginawa sila ng UE.”

For Canlas, the legacy extends beyond titles. He hopes the culture he built—discipline, respect, and dedication—continues to thrive even after his departure.

“Yung respeto at kung ano ‘yung sinimulan ng UE sa UAAP. Hindi pa naman ako nagsasabing tapos na ako; nag-try lang ako ng ibang opportunity. Malay natin di ba,” he shared.

Canlas has nurtured these athletes from a very young age, some from as early as eight years old, guiding them not just toward championships, but toward national and Olympic aspirations.

“Kita mo naman ‘tong mga ‘to; hindi ko lang naman tinuruan ‘to noong high school. Eight years old pa lang hawak ko na ‘yan. Talagang tinrain ko na ‘yan, at goal ko talaga is national team. Ang goal ko talaga ay makarating sa Olympics. Yan ang mindset ng mga players ko, especially ‘pag foil. Kaya kung makita mo buong-buo talaga sila,” he said.

Education has always been equally important to Canlas. He emphasizes discipline both on and off the piste, ensuring that talent is matched by responsibility.

“Tsaka nasa academics din ako. Bata pa lang talaga, tinuruan ko na kung paano ‘yung discipline, eh. Gano’n talaga ‘yung ano nila sa ‘kin: academics and discipline. Kaya nga ako naka-produce ng Olympian because of the discipline. Kaya dalawang dekada kaming nag-champion sa UE because of the discipline na ini-impose ko sa team.

“Napakaimportante sa ‘kin ang academics at discipline, lalo na ‘pag makita kong malaki ‘yung potential ng bata. Kailangang i-guide siya nang tama. Kasi sayang ‘yung talent ‘pag hindi siya ginuide ng tama. Yun rin ang maganda sa UE, ‘pag nagkaproblema ‘yung bata, tinatawag agad sa ‘kin ng College Secretary, ng High School Principal. Kaya nga hindi kami nahihirapan sa mga national team namin, kasi gano’ng naka-support ‘yung UE management.”

Canlas will be taking his expertise and family to Australia, leaving behind a dynasty and a thriving support system. His decision, however, is rooted in family priorities rather than personal ambition.

“Well, kung ako lang naman ‘yung kinuha, hindi naman ako pupunta kung ako lang namang mag-isa. Kaya ko tinanggap ‘to kasi sinama ‘yung pamilya ko. Kumbaga, do’n ko nakita na para sa mga anak ko ‘to, para sa family ko ‘to. Kasi ba’t naman ako aalis, eh comfort zone ko ‘to? Ok naman ‘yung buhay ko dito,” he said.

“Pero nakita ko ‘yung opportunity para sa mga anak ko, sa family ko, na ‘pag pumunta ako do’n, kasama sila. Kaya susubok ako kasi ang hirap namang tanggihan, parang no-brainer ka naman, lalo pa’t Australia. Alam naman natin sa Australia; nakita naman natin ‘yung quality of life do’n. Why not, hindi natin subukan, para sa future ng mga anak ko ‘to, hindi naman ‘to para sa akin,” said the future head of the Tizona Fencing Club in Melbourne.

Beyond UE, Canlas has also shaped Philippine fencing at large, mentoring national athletes and fostering a new generation of coaches and referees.

“Sa PFA, nag-iisip talaga kami ng mga coaching seminar. Mag-i-invite kami ng mga magagaling na coaches from other countries na dadalhin rito, para continuous ‘yung learning ng coaches. Kung ako talaga, mas magpupundar ako sa coach. Kasi ‘yung coach, ‘pag may magaling na coach, at aral ‘yung coach, makaka-produce ng magagaling na fencer ‘yan. ‘’Yun ang nakikita kong dapat gawin, makapag-produce ng maraming-maraming coach na magagaling… all weapons,” Canlas shared.

“PFA ang makakapag-decide diyan kasi sila ‘yung body. Pero diyan magsisimula ‘yan: magagaling na coach at magagaling na referee. Number one ‘yan, coach and referee. Dapat mag-tandem ‘yan, para makapag-produce tayo ng Olympian. Kasi ‘pag mahina ‘yung quality, madami lang tayo. Kaya ‘yan ang pinakamahalaga diyan, ‘pag may mga ganyang opportunity, gagaling talaga ‘yung coach."

Canlas leaves behind not just champions, but a culture, a discipline, and a standard that will continue to define UE fencing—and Philippine fencing—for years to come.

UE renews quest towards UAAP fencing dominance

Khiane Felipe among those leading UE's charge. (c/o PFA)

Individual Events today at the Makati Coliseum
9 a.m.
Women's Foil
Boys' Epee
Men's Sabre

1 p.m.
Girls' Foil
Men's Epee
Boys' Sabre

Action in the piste is set to commence over the next few days at the Makati Coliseum, with the start of the UAAP Season 88 Fencing Championships.

Serving as the dominant school in this discipline, the University of the East is set to field another strong contingent, highlighted by its national team standouts in the senior and youth levels.

The Felipe brothers will lead the way in the men's division, with three-time MVP Shawn Nicollei Felipe set to compete in Epee and younger brother Khiane in Sabre on opening day.

Also set to assert his dominance is Anthony Concepcion, the younger sibling of former UAAP MVP CJ.

In explaining their excellence over the piste in the past decade, the fourth-year psychology major and three-time SEA Games participant shares, "I think it’s because of the fact that most of the UE fencers — former and current — have played or are now national team members." He adds, "That’s the program of the UE fencing team, for its fencers to always aim higher, be a member of the national team."

Serving as the main challengers against their quest for a 13-peat are a La Salle side led by defending men's individual sabre champion Christian Buenaventura and Edan Ensamtan, a UST squad relying on Adam Putian and Larco Cortez, an Ateneo unit led by Adam Aceron and Andre Agatep, and an up-and-coming UP side anchored on Calix Ho, Dexter Ramos, and Lorenzo Malvar.

The Women's side is set to be in a flux, as defending champions the University of Santo Tomas will not have last season's key individual awardees Janna Catantan and Alexa Larrazabal.

In their absence, it will be up to the Tuy siblings, Kim and Krystal to hold the fort, with Lady Bathan and Kate Sardenia tasked to carry the cudgels in Catantan's main foil disciple.

UE will rely on a veteran crew in their quest to reclaim the crown they lost narrowly last season, led by three-time MVP Queenie Dalmacio.

The fifth-year Lady Warrior says, "There is always pressure, but I’ve learned not to think about it. I know I’ve worked hard. We’re motivated. Together with my teammates, we want to get that team saber title back, and the women’s overall title back to UE."

Serving as key cogs in the UE machine are Andrea Matias and Jaymi delos Santos, with  

The sabre duo of Kaku dela Serna and Maiev Boy leads the cast for Ateneo, with La Salle relying on Cyrra Vergara, Krupskaya Ednilag, and Lady Sigua. UP completes the five-team field with Mariel Flores, Nana Carbonell, and Marga Tapales.

In the high school division, the Junior Warriors are seen as the biggest contenders, led by Sophia Catantan and James Lim.

A new challenger has emerged with the addition of PAREF-Southridge as a guest team, anchored on the leadership of Enrico Fuentes and Lucas Palafox.

Vito Coching and Martina Baccay lead the way for a La Salle-Zobel side that will miss youth standout Miyake Capina for this season, with Hannah Belarmino, Mairon Moulic, and Matthew General anchoring Ateneo. UPIS will have two participants this season with Mark De Lusong and Joseph Bantang in epee, while UST is set to field with Pau Fernandez and last season's Rookie of the Year Marian Castro, as well as Kathleen Tuy and Ma. Estelliah Gillana also a factor.

Philippine Fencing Association set to host 1st Leg of Senior Rankings

c/o the Philippine Fencing Association

With minor club-related competitions having kicked off fencing in the Philippines for 2026, the Philippine Fencing Association ratchets things up with the commencement of its rankings tournaments.

The Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City will serve as the host venue for the first leg of its senior tournaments, which will take place this Saturday and Sunday, February 14-15. Previous legs last year had taken place in a variety of venues, from the Quantum Skyview at Gateway Mall 2, to the Alabang Town Center, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila, the PhilSports Arena in Pasig, and capping off at the Ormoc Superdome in Leyte last June.

Saturday will feature Men's Epee in the morning, followed by Women's Foil and Men's Sabre in the afternoon. Sunday will then have Women's Epee, Men's Foil, and Women's Sabre. 

Being the first major senior-level event of the year, it is expected to set the competitive tone for fencers across the country aiming to climb the national rankings and secure momentum early in the season, with the subsequent legs coming in the next few weeks and months. Over three hundred have expressed their intention to participate this weekend.

The PFA views these legs as an opportunity to identify new talent to add onto its pool of candidates, as well as serve as a gauge to check on its current ones, led by SEA Games individual silver medalist Noelito Jose and bronze medalists Nathaniel Perez, Janna Catantan, Eunice Daniel Villanueva, and CJ Concepcion. Also, the NSA is set to participate in international competitions all year long, with a few already involved in recent tournaments abroad.

In fact, all locally-based fencers who went to Thailand for the SEA Games are expected to play this weekend, with US-based Sam Catantan and Charmaine Andres not in the current field.

With the upcoming UAAP season coming in a few weeks, the tournament is set to serve as a preview of some of the best student-athletes to take the stage. Participants from all five regular member schools are represented, including all six individual gold medalists from last season, aside from the potential addition of guest school PAREF-Southridge and their cadre of student-athletes making their league debut.

Action on the piste will also feature outstanding youth standouts in cadet and junior levels, a few of whom will be headed to Jakarta for the Asian Cadet and Junior Championships next week. Some of these fencers got their preparations underway with their participation in recent age-level tournaments hosted by a few clubs in the run-up to the first leg, whilst others visited camps abroad to gain much-needed experience and reps, as they prepare for the PFA's opening leg of the Cadet and Junior Tournaments next month.

In addition, the outstanding fencers from last year's rankings in all categories are slated to be honored on both days, with the men taking their turn on Saturday and the women the next day. 

With the start of the senior ranking season, the competition not only energizes athletes but also invigorates local clubs, coaches, and supporters. Activities from both the PFA and the different clubs/schools provide continuous competitive opportunities across age groups, ensuring that the sport’s development pipeline remains active and robust.

For seasoned athletes, this event is a chance to reaffirm their dominance, and for younger competitors moving up the ranks, it is a proving ground—a moment to challenge the veterans and announce their arrival.

Spectators and supporters can expect two days of high‑level fencing filled with strategy, speed, and determination as the Philippine fencing season officially kicks off in Quezon City.

Southridge to hold fourth international fencing tournament

After skipping last year, PAREF-Southridge is hosting the fourth edition of its fencing competition this weekend, with The Bellevue in Alabang serving as the venue for the two-day competition, bringing together some of the best youth fencers in the country.

Around thirty divisions across a variety of age groups in all three disciplines are set to participate, both individually and in team formats. The current field includes a number who are in preparation for not just the upcoming UAAP later in this quarter, but also for the upcoming major tournaments being held here and abroad.

Notable standouts from the likes of the major fencing institutions are expected to participate, including SEA Games medalists Louis Shoemaker and Sophia Catantan of the University of the East, as well as fellow national team pool members like Nicol Canlas, Brynt Gale, James Lim, Ivana Salvador, Jodie Tan, Solana Trinidad, and the del Castillo siblings Oscar and Hagia Sophia.

In addition, Enrico Fuentes leads the home contingent of Admirals, with their expected debut as a guest team in the UAAP looming in the horizon.

Also, a few fencers are seeking to build on their performances from last week's 3rd Winter Cup as hosted by neighbors Hampton Court Fencing Club with the ratcheted up competition in this field. 

And true to their title, a few foreigners are also set to join the competition.

UAAP youth fencing standouts lead Philippine contingent at Foil Junior World Cup

The Philippines at the FIE Foil Junior World Cup in Bangkok (photo shared by Ishoot Isports Phi Image / Waylon Galvez)

With an eye towards Southeast Asian Games, two Filipino fencers are set to use an upcoming international stint to boost their preparations.

UAAP champions Sophia Catantan and Louis Shoemaker lead the Philippine contingent in the 2025 edition of the Bangkok FIE Foil Junior World Cup, which will take place at the Diamond Hall of the Zeer Ransit Shopping Mall in Don Mueang, Bangkok, Thailand from December 13-15.

The duo will then proceed to the SEA Games, with the fencing competition kicking off the next day at the Fashion Island Mall. Both fencers are currently expected to participate on the team portion of the competition.

For Catantan, it is a chance to make amends after being bounced out after pool play at this exact same event last year. She shares to Waylon Galvez, "We hope to make the most as we compete again in the World Cup before we head to the SEA Games. Both tournaments are equally important for us, that’s why we hope to do well in the Junior World Cup and in the SEA Games."

Shoemaker acknowledges the challenge that looms and adds, "We hope to do better. We hope to improve not only our skills but also our respective placings.." Like his fellow student-athlete from Recto, the former UAAP HS Boys MVP also did not move past pool play last time out, albeit in 2023.

Saturday will see the men take to the piste, with Shoemaker being joined by fellow Red Warrior James Limuel Lim, Marcus Antonio Manuel of the University of Asia and the Pacific, and Dean Myers of Haverford University in Pennsylvania. These three comprised the Philippine men's contingent a year ago, with Myers seeking to improve from 54th place finish, while Lim and Manuel plan on bouncing back from first round exits.

Comprising the nine-man squad are Jethro Chan (Homeschool of Asia Pacific) and Derek Perez (Ateneo), Australia-based Jeremy David Ong (School of Isolated and Distance Education), and US-based Nathan Palma (Olentangy HS, OH) and Jacob Le (Huntington Beach HS, CA).

The next day will feature the women, led by Catantan and seven others. Joining her in the field are fellow UE fencers Yuna Canlas and Willa Galvez, as well as multiple UAAP high school medalist Miyake Capina. The La Salle-Zobel standout is seeking to improve from her 87th place finish and first round exit last year.

Also making a return from last year are the trio of Jodie Tan, Victoria Ebdane (Homeschool Global), and Jada Divinagracia (MIIS) as they seek to make it into the knockout rounds this time around. Hagia Sophia del Castillo from Poveda completes the field.

Team competition will cap off action on Monday, with the quartet of Le, Lim, Manuel, and Myers for the men and Capina, Divinagracia, Ebdane, and Tan for the women. 

Joining the Filipino delegation are national team veterans and coaches Bing Lozada, Michael Nicanor, and Justine Tinio.

In addition, US-based fencer of Filipino ancestry Gabrielle Grace Gebala is also set to participate, with the Silicon Valley Fencing Center standout also looking to improve on her second round exit last year.

UAAP standouts highlight Philippine contingent in Asian U-23 Fencing Championships

The best young fencers on the continent are gathered this week in Malaysia for the 2025 edition of the Asian U-23 Fencing Championships, with the pistes inside the Arena Tan Sri Hamzah, Wisma OCM in Kuala Lumpur serving as the host venue.

It was supposed to take place in the Philippines, but the country had to bow out of having the competition and fellow ASEAN member Malaysia stepped in.

Slated to kick things off are the individual disciplines for the next three days, with team play set to conclude the competition at the weekend.

Wednesday sees the men's epee and the women's sabre on the pistes. Seven Filipinos are on tap to work on them.

On the men's side, PAREF-Southridge's Enrico Fuentes is returning to a place with good memories, having won a SEAFF gold medal in this discipline. Like Fuentes, Oscar del Castillo has achieved success in Malaysia, managing podium finishes in a couple of tournaments at the same venue. Completing the trio is Edan Ensamtan from La Salle.

As for the distaff side, it is anchored by the UE trio of Shareen Beltran, Nicol Canlas, and Shy Catantan. The latter two were key cogs to the Junior Warriors' silver medal finish at the team level, with Nicol fresh from winning a couple of titles earlier this month at the PFA and Xavier Fencing Cup. Meanwhile, Beltran has been the other individual fencer alongside former UAAP MVP Queenie Dalmacio. Completing the quartet is Ateneo standout Kaku dela Serna.

Thursday features the women's foil and men's sabre. The Filipina quartet is led by Shy's two elder sisters who happened to be named as UAAP MVPs this past season, Janna and Sophia. Sophia managed to make recent history for Philippine fencing by winning a bronze at the FIE Satellite event in Singapore. Janna was part of the Filipino contingent at the World Championships in Georgia, and is set to lead UST in a quest for back-to-back UAAP women's fencing crowns. La Salle-Zobel standout Miyake Capina and St. Jude College's Jodie Tan complete the team.

On the men's sabre side, Charles Babatio and Anthony Concepcion helped secure UE the team crown last season, with the former also snagging bronze in individual competition. Khiane Felipe is the current Boys' individual champion and helped the Junior Warriors snag the boys' team crown as well. Former Tiger Fencer Kurt Maruquez is the fourth fencer participating.

Friday features the final set of individual disciplines in men's foil and women's epee. Shawn Nicollei Felipe and Robert Ygnatius Cabaero topped the UAAP Men's Individual event, joined by Louis Shoemaker in helping lock in the Men's Team crown. Marcus Antonio Manuel completes the team.

Finally, the Women's Epee team is led by two Ormoc-based fencers in Ivy Dinoy and UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year Alexa Larrazabal. Andrea Matias finished runner-up to Larrazabal this past collegiate season, while Krups Ednilag is the final member of the Filipino playing delegation.

Fil-Am Fencing World Champion set for homecoming visit

Lee Kiefer after finally claiming the FIE World Championship earlier this month in Tbilisi. (c/o FIE)

Fresh from their recent international success, noted fencing couple Lee Kiefer and Gerek Meinhardt are paying it forward in sharing their talent and knowledge to the next generation.

The American duo are set to visit the Philippines at the end of the month for a one-day camp, in collaboration with the Philippine Fencing Association, as well as Alabang Fencing and Canlas Fencing.

National team coach Amatov Canlas shares that it is a, "... Dream come true for the Philippine fencing community." He thankfully adds, "... natupad din yun dasal ko na someday bibisita sya sa Pilipinas at ma-inspire nya pa lalo ang mga Filipino youth fencers na mag pursige at mangarap ng mas mataas sa napili nila sports."

Said camp, which is tailored for fencers of all levels who are at least ten years of age, will take place on August 28 at the Fencing Hall inside the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City, from 5-8pm.

It provides a rare opportunity to train with Lee, who is the first American fencer to win an Olympic gold medal in foil and is coming off securing an impressive World Championship a few weeks ago, becoming the first American woman to win gold in individual foil. Participants will also get the chance to pick the mind of her husband Gerek, who is a five-time Olympian and a two-time medalist for Team USA.

Those interested can register through this link -> https://forms.gle/cxQk1bwr6KuoyZfJ7

For inquiries, one can message Coach Dolly of Alabang Fencing at 0966-7896623. 

The next day, Lee and Gerard will hold a meet and greet at the Hexagon Lounge inside RCBC Plaza in Makati at 6-8pm. This event is open for everyone and will be an evening of stories, inspiration, and connection in a more personal setting.

Kiefer, whose Filipino roots come from her mother Teresa via Tagum City, has long expressed pride in her roots. She is one of the 25 honorees for the 2021 edition of The Outstanding Filipinos in America (TOFA) Awards.

She shared to Alex Abrams back in 2022, "After I won that last touch and had that medal on (in Tokyo), I received so much outpouring from the Philippines, from the Filipino community, the whole Asian American community," Kiefer said. "Yeah, I was so proud to be able to do that for all of these people. …" 

"I’m half-Filipino, and growing up I saw these Asian women in my sport who looked like me. And so to be able to be like, whoa, to be that for other people was really special."

Her visit marks a meaningful homecoming and a chance to give back to the community.

Event Details

Event	Date & Time	Location	Fee
Foil Camp	August 28, 5:00–8:00 PM	PSC Fencing Hall, Pasig City	$100
Meet & Greet	August 29, 6:00–8:00 PM	Hexagon Lounge, RCBC Plaza, Makati	Free (optional dinner available)

Larrazabal stamps class in UAAP fencing debut

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Fencing Medal Tally
(G-S-B)

Men's

UP 1-0-1
DLSU 1-0-0
UE 0-1-1
UST 0-1-1
Ateneo 0-0-1

Women's

UST 2-0-0
UP 0-1-2
UE 0-1-1
DLSU 0-0-1
Ateneo 0-0-0

Boys'

UE 3-1-1
UST 0-1-3
Ateneo 0-1-2
DLSZ 0-0-0
UPIS 0-0-0

Girls'

UST 1-1-0
UE 1-0-3
DLSZ 0-1-1
Ateneo 0-0-0

In her collegiate debut, Alexal Larrazabal stamped her class in the women's individual epee for the University of Santo Tomas in the second day of the UAAP Season 87 Fencing Championships Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The freshman claimed the gold after defeating Andrea Matias of the University of the East, 15-10, in the final, capping off the morning session. Already part of the national team pool, she made her case in the knockout rounds by dispatching two La Salle fencers back-to-back, first taking out Krups Ednilag, 15-6, and Cyrra Vergara, 15-8.

She succeeds fellow Ormoc native Juliana Gomez, who won this event the last couple of seasons after it was brought back post-pandemic. The UP graduate opted to sit out this season to focus on national team aspirations.

Alexa was very much appreciative of the support she received on her path to triumph. She says, "Wow, so many people supported me; and I'm so happy that it's my first year, and I did not expect to get number one at all. I would like to thank Coach Arman (Bernal); he was there the whole competition, coaching me by my side. There are so many coaches that I would like to thank, and you're all very important to me."

Fresh from yesterday's foil gold from Janna Catantan, Larrazabal adds, "I'm so happy (for her), and I'm so glad to be teammates with ate Yssah; she's a good fencer. And I'm also happy that I was able to give another gold medal to UST."

With these two golds, UST has widened its gap on the field, which sees defending champions the University of the East stumble out of the gate in third place with Matias' runner-up finish.

Sneaking into second place are the Fighting Maroons, who snapped up a bronze in the morning after Juliana Ballesteros ensured a semifinal spot by nipping Jaymi delos Santos, 15-14 in the quarters.

La Salle also officially entered into the medal tally with Vergara tallying a bronze, defeating Bhea Raguin of UST in the quarters, 15-9, before bowing to Larrazabal in the semifinals.

In Boys' action, James Lim put UE at the cusp of clinching the division for the thirteenth straight season with his individual foil title to add to his silver yesterday on sabre.

After dispatching back-to-back Ateneo fencers in consecutive rounds to secure a finals berth (15-0 over Albert Pascua and 15-6 over Derek Perez), last year's Most Valuable Player took care of business against Rayne Maravilla to secure the title, 15-7.

He shared afterwards, "Sobrang importante po na nakuha ko 'yung gold na 'to kasi makakatulong po 'to para mag-champion po uli kami. We hope na yung girls', men's, and women's teams makuha din po nila 'yung championship."

In the process, Lim completes the individual sweep in the division for the Junior Warriors, with Gale taking care of epee and Khiane Felipe on sabre yesterday.

He adds, "Masaya po kami na nakuha namin 'yung golds sa epee, foil, and sabre. Hopefully, makuha pa rin sa Thursday and Friday 'yung teams. Kasi 'yung goal namin is a pa-13-peat kami, kaya gusto namin talagang kunin 'yung championship. Less pressure na lang rin siguro dahil nakuha na namin 'yung tatlong golds sa individual."

Also earning a medal is Angel Aberilla from UST, who lost to his teammate Maravilla, 15-14, to secure the bronze.

Completing the morning session on the second day is the girls' sabre, where Liah Gilliana of the University of Santo Tomas outpointed her teammate Kathleen Tuy, 15-14.

The Espana-based fencers set up the matchup by defeating their opponents from the University of the East in the semifinals to ensure they finish on top of the division.

Gillana stunned fellow youth standout Sophia Catantan, 15-10, while Kathleen, the younger sister of collegiate standouts Kim and Krystal, edged out Nicol Canlas, 15-14.

Liah says about their feat, "Actually, in-expect ko naman po kasi sa sabre, malakas naman kami, and ever since we've been conditioning ourselves, putting our minds and thoughts in this. Proud na proud rin kami na nakabawi na kami and maganda rin naman 'yung performance namin. Hopefully, we will see it din in the future competitions."

The two bronzes complement the gold and bronze UE netted yesterday to put them in second place.

UP secures gold in Miggy Bautista's return to collegiate fencing

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Fencing Medal Tally
(G-S-B)

Men's
UP 1-0-1
DLSU 1-0-0
UE 0-1-1
UST 0-1-1
Ateneo 0-0-1

Women's
UST 1-0-0
UP 0-1-1
UE 0-0-1
Ateneo 0-0-0
DLSU 0-0-0

Boys'
UE 2-1-1
Ateneo 0-1-1
UST 0-0-2
DLSZ 0-0-0
UPIS 0-0-0

Girls'
UE 1-0-1
DLSZ 0-1-1
UST 0-0-0
Ateneo 0-0-0

After five years, Miggy Bautista's return to the UAAP is a successful one, as the Rookie of the Year back in Season 82 for Ateneo de Manila clinched the individual title in men's epee in dramatic fashion at the league's Season 87 Fencing Championships at Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Tuesday afternoon.

Now representing the University of the Philippines, Bautista improved on his silver finish then with a gold medal this time, nipping reigning league MVP Nicollei Felipe, 15-14.

Also part of the national team pool, the 23-year-old shares, "It feels really good to be back in the UAAP after five years. I miss the energy; the last time I'm playing here, I was playing for Ateneo and got the silver medal. Buti na lang I was able to come back and do better this year."

He acknowledges that there is still room for improvement, "Actually, if I have to rate my performance, it was very mid. Maybe it's six out of ten, compared to what I feel like I can do. I'm just glad to have the emotional and mental resilience to focus and win the bout even after being down."

Before setting up his match against his fellow national team member, Bautista outlasted Adam Putian of the University of Santo Tomas in the quarterfinals, 15-13, before defeating fellow Maroon John Dexter Ramos, 15-9.

Completing the podium is Kieth Bernal from the University of Santo Tomas, who lost to Felipe in the semifinals, 8-15, to secure a bronze finish with Ramos.

The University of the East ensured its stranglehold atop the boys division after Khiane Felipe topped fellow Junior Warrior James Lim in individual sabre, 15-13.

It was UE's second gold in as many events, after Brynt Gale topped the individual epee earlier in the day.

Sharing his thoughts afterwards, the seventeen-year-old from San Francisco Elementary School says, "Naka-relieve po kami sa kaba kasi dini-defend nga po namin 'yung title namin na 12-peat, so mas mas madali sa 'ming ma-secure 'yung championship dahil nakuha namin 'tong two golds."

Felipe adds, "Importante talaga sa 'ming ma-defend siya kasi nagsimula siya hindi naman sa 'min, kundi sa seniors namin. Kaya hindi lang sa 'min magiging masakit kung mawala, sa kanila rin."

Sebastian Aceron of Ateneo de Manila and Eilrach Sendico of the University of Santo Tomas claimed the bronze medals after bowing out of the semifinals against their respective Junior Warriors opponents.

Completing the afternoon session saw Sophia Catantan showcase her dominance in girls' individual foil for the University of the East.

After just allowing one point combined in pool play, the youth standout took care of business against Rana Rafael of Ateneo de Manila, 15-3 in the quarterfinals, then dispatched fellow Junior Warrior Willa Galvez, 15-5 in the semifinals.

She then capped it off with a 15-4 victory over Zobel fencer and fellow national team youth standout Miyake Capina, 15-4.

Opao took note of her sister's feat earlier in the day and hoped she could keep that going. She says, "Siyempre na-boost po 'yung mood ko na nag-gold si ate; inisip ko po na sana ako rin. Sobrang nag-enjoy lang po talaga ko today, wala akong inisip na kaba or pressure. Ginawa ko lang po kung paano ako maglaro."

Capina had defeated teammate Martina Baccay in the semifinal, 15-12, ensuring UE and Zobel corner all the medals in this particular discipline.

The remaining individual disciplines will take to the pistes tomorrow at the same venue.

Jannah Catantan reclaims UAAP women's foil title

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Fencing Medal Tally
(G-S-B)

Men's
DLSU 1-0-0
UST 0-1-0
Ateneo 0-0-1
UE 0-0-1
UP 0-0-0

Women's
UST 1-0-0
UP 0-1-1
UE 0-0-1
Ateneo 0-0-0
DLSU 0-0-0

Boys'
UE 1-0-1
Ateneo 0-1-0
UST 0-0-1
DLSZ 0-0-0
UPIS 0-0-0

JANNAH Catantan reclaimed the women’s individual foil title to propel University of Santo Tomas to the early lead in the women’s division of the UAAP Season 87 Fencing Championships, Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Malate, Manila, highlighting the morning session of the competition.

The Atletang Ayala and national team standout dominated the field, capping off her impressive run with a clinical 15-3 win over defending champion Nana Carbonell of University of the Philippines in the final to earn her second title in the discipline.

On her way to completing the sweep, Catantan blanked Ateneo de Manila's Bea Ursolino, 15-0, before dispatching reigning league MVP Queenie Dalmacio of the University of the East, 15-8 in the semifinals.

"Pinaka lesson na natutunan ko last year is not to pressure myself too much. Physically, technically, wala talaga rin ako masyadong binago, it's more on mentally preparing myself kasi po alam ko do'n talaga ko nagkulang — mentally and emotionally — last year. And kaya heading into this competition, ang preparation ko talaga is not to be too hard on myself, taking time to rest especially if hindi po talaga kaya. And it works," said the 32nd Southeast Asian Games bronze medalist.

("The biggest lesson I learned last year is not to pressure myself too much. Physically and technically, I didn’t really change much — it was more about mentally preparing myself, because I knew that’s where I really fell short last year — mentally and emotionally. So heading into this competition, my preparation was really about not being too hard on myself, allowing myself to rest especially when I really couldn’t push anymore. And it works.")

"Mabuti rin po na na-realize ko po 'yon kasi even before I feel like I'm really pressuring myself too much when, in fact, naco-compromise na po 'yung performance. Kaya 'yon, naging mabait lang po talaga ako sa sarili ko," she added.

("It’s also a good thing that I realized that, because even before, I felt like I was really putting too much pressure on myself, and in fact, it was already compromising my performance. So yeah, I just chose to be kinder to myself.")

Carbonell, who lost to Catantan in pool play, 2-5, earned her spot in the final by dispatching Yelena Martinez of Ateneo, 15-2, in the quarterfinals, and then outpointing Mariel Flores in an all-UP matchup, 15-4.

Flores and Dalmacio shared bronze medals as a result of their semifinal appearances.

On the men's side, De La Salle University’s Christian Buenaventura pulled off a thrilling upset over UST’s reigning back-to-back men’s sabre champion Eunice Villanueva with a 15-14 victory in the final, putting the Green Fencers ahead.

Villanueva battled back to tie things at 14-all, but his hopes for a threepeat were neutralized after the 24-year-old senior held his nerve and landed a decisive counter to seal the win.

"When he was able to tie the match, that shook me a little bit, especially when I thought the touch before that was mine. In the end, I kind of went back to what I was saying before: to reset and think about what to do next, and was able to focus on what I need," shared Buenaventura.

"After the previous three years, in my mind, it's about time (I got one). I feel like in the previous years, I underperformed, but this time, I finally performed the way I should," he added.

Sharing the bronze after bowing out in the semifinals are Charles Babatio of the University of the East and Andre Agatep of Ateneo de Manila University.

Capping off the morning session is Brynt Gale's triumph in the boys' individual epee to kickstart UE's hopes to extend their reign in the division for a thirteenth straight campaign.

Brynt matched his brother Von Eubert's feat with a 15-10 victory over Ateneo High School's Samuel Gatmaytan in the final.

"Masaya po kasi nakakuha ako ng gold and nakatulong ako sa university namin. And sana proud siya (referring to his brother) na nakuha ko rin 'yung gold katulad niya," Gale said.

("I'm happy because I was able to win a gold medal and help our university. And I hope he's proud (referring to his brother) that I also won a gold just like he did.")

UST’s John Malinao and UE’s Ruzel Gallano secured the remaining bronze medals.

UE aims for historic fourth straight UAAP fencing sweep

c/o UAAP Media Team

UNIVERSITY of the East looks to extend its dominance in the sport as it aims for a fourth consecutive quadruple championship when the UAAP Season 87 Fencing Championships begin Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Malate, Manila.

The Red Warriors are gunning for their 13th straight title in the Boys’ division—currently the longest active championship streak in the league. The Men's and Girls’ squads will each aim for an 11th consecutive crown, while the Women’s team is eyeing a four-peat.

Reigning MVP Nicollei Felipe will lead the charge for UE’s Men's squad, which remains the heavy favorite in the epee and foil events. Meanwhile, the University of Santo Tomas will rely on back-to-back individual sabre champion Eunice Villanueva to make his mark once again.

University of the Philippines remains a strong contender, particularly in the epee category, bolstered by the anticipated debut of UAAP Season 82 Rookie of the Year and national team standout Miggy Bautista in maroon colors.

Four-time MVP Queenie Dalmacio will spearhead UE’s Women’s squad for the final time, as she sets her sights on a fourth individual sabre gold. At the same time, Nana Carbonell is expected to step up and fill the gap left by Juliana Gomez’s departure, taking on a leadership role for UP.

UST is also expected to make a strong push for podium finishes, with Jannah Catantan eyeing redemption in the individual foil after yielding the gold to Carbonell last season.

De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University are also hoping to make a splash and pull off some surprises during the tournament.

In the Juniors division, UAAP Season 85 MVP James Lim and UAAP Season 86 MVP Opao Catantan will once again suit up for the Junior Warriors, defending the Boys' and Girls' titles, respectively.

The competition kicks off today with individual events in Boys’ Epee, Men’s Sabre, and Women’s Foil in the morning session. The afternoon will feature Girls’ Foil, Boys’ Sabre, and Men’s Epee. On Wednesday, the action continues with Boys’ Foil, Girls’ Sabre, and Women’s Epee, concluding with Women’s Sabre, Men’s Foil, and Girls’ Epee to wrap up the individual events.

The same schedule will be repeated over the following two days, this time for the team events.

National Team bets claim first leg of PFA Ranking Tournament

c/o Araneta City

This past weekend saw the best of the best fencers in the country flock to the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2 to compete in the first leg of the ranking tournaments of the Philippine Fencing Association.

All three disciplines were featured, with national team members establish their initial dominance.

It started with the men on Saturday, highlighted by pool members taking three of the four semifinal spots in both sabre and foil.

Nathaniel Perez defeated fellow Atletang Ayala and pool member Sammuel Tranquilan in the final of the latter, 15-8. Joining them in the podium are losing semifinalists Louis Shoemaker and pool member Shawn Felipe. All four also happen to represent the University of the East.

As for the former, CJ Concepcion dispatched Eunice Villanueva in an all-pool member final, 15-7.  Kurt Maruquez managed to eke into the semifinals by defeating UE fencer Charles Babatio, 15-10 before the La Salle fencer lost to Villanueva in the semifinals, 11-15. Khiane Felipe also earned a semifinal spot before bowing to Concepcion, 11-15.

Sean Patrick Lauron managed to escape the national team gauntlet by topping the epee discipline. Representing Oblation Fencing, he dispatched Noelito Jose, Jr, 15-14, in the final, with Lee Ergina and Ruzzel Gallano completing the semifinalists.

Sunday was not much different, with all three discipline featuring national team stalwarts in all finals matchups.

Alexa Larrazabal outpointed Ashley Harrison in epee, 15-13, while Atletang Ayala's Janna Catantan outperformed Wilhelmina Lozada, 15-12, and Jylyn Nicanor dominated reigning two-time UAAP MVP Queen Dalmacio,  15-3.

Second leg action is scheduled to take place next month at the Alabang Town Center.

PFA commences ranking tournaments for 2025

c/o Araneta City

Fencers took to the piste at the Quantum Skyview at Gateway Mall 2, with the first leg of the ranking tournaments for the Philippine Fencing Association.

This past weekend saw action in the Cadet (U17) divisions on Saturday, while it was the turn of Junior (U20) division on Sunday. Both feature men and women in all three disciplines participating.

Noted powerhouse Canlas Fencing made early headway on Saturday, with its members topping three divisions in Cadet play.

Oscar Gabriel del Castillo started things off by nipping Yllac Guinto of Bladesmith Fencing Club, 15-14 to claim the men's epee title. Matt Mayo (Republic Fencing) and Ian Miranda (UST) ended up on the podium.

In an all-Canlas Fencing final, James Limuel Lim topped Brynt Gale, 15-10, with Derek Perez (Ateneo) and Lucas Palafox (PAREF-Southridge) completing the top four in men's foil. Lim and Gale are also representing the University of the East in a dual capacity in the competition

The other Canlas Fencing champion turned out to be Ivana Salvador, who fended off teammate Jickle Ong, 15-13, women's epee. Another teammate in Nina Canlas, who also is representing UE, joined them in the podium with Solana Trinidad (Ezkrima).

Canlas Fencing also snapped up two more podium spots, with Nicol Canlas (dual representation with UE) at women's sabre and Jada Divinagracia (dual representation with the Multiple Intelligence International School) at women's foil.

Canlas lost to eventual champion Kathleen Tuy of the University of Santo Tomas in the semifinals, 9-15, with Tuy defeating fellow Tiger fencer Ma. Estelliah Gillana, 15-6 in the final. Gillana got a free pass to the final after UE fencer Kirsten Shanelle Catantan had to withdraw in the semifinals due to medical reasons.

Divinagracia bowed to Sophia Catantan in the semifinals, 7-15. The two-time UAAP MVP in the girls division dispatched Hannah Belarmino, 11-6 to claim the crown. Completing the quartet is Regina Pascual of Republic Fencing.

Capping off Saturday action is Eilrahc Sendico outlasting a strong Ateneo contingent in the men's sabre. The UST fencer dispatched Blue Eagle Julian Rosaros in the semifinals, 15-13, before outlasting Julian's teammate Mairon Moulic, 15-14. Moulic had beaten Matthew General in an all-Loyola Heights matchup, 15-9.

Meanwhile on Sunday, perennial powerhouse UE claimed three divisions in the older Juniors division, while Canlas Fencing continued its excellence with podium representation in four divisions.

Reigning UAAP Boys MVP Louis Shoemaker claimed men's foil title with a 15-10 victory over the aforementioned Canlas fencer Marcus Manuel. Lim and Gale followed up their previous day's efforts with a semifinal appearance.

Ramil Encelan Jr prevented Del Castillo an opportunity for a double gold with 15-14 victory in their semifinal matchup in men's epee. The Red Warrior then kickstarted the title proceedings with a 15-10 victory over Jose Faber Cabrera. Cabrera prevented an all-Recto final by beating Von Gale in the other semifinal, 15-10.

The last UE fencer to win this weekend was thanks to Khiane Felipe in men's sabre. Felipe, who is also representing the national team in this tournament, defeated fellow national team stalwart Christian Concepcion in the final, 15-8. Reigning UAAP individual champion Charles Babatio lost to Concepcion in the semifinals, 12-15 to join Vito Coching of La Salle-Zobel as losing semifinalists.

Gillana would extract revenge against Tuy the next day with a dominant 15-5 performance in the semifinals for women's sabre. She then outpointed Kathleen's sister Krystal, 15-14 in an all-UST final. The other Tuy also won 15-5 in the semifinal against UE's Shareen Beltran.

Salvador and Catantan also were denied the opportunity to claim double golds, as both were stunned in the quarterfinals of their respective disciplines.

Belarmino upset the former, 15-14 in women's epee, but lost in the next round to eventual champion Julianna Ballesteros, 12-13. The fencer from UP Diliman topped Nina Canlas, 15-13 to claim the title.

As for the latter, Miyake Capina of La Salle-Zobel pulled off an impressive 15-9 triumph, eventually securing the women's foil title with 15-7 victories over Willa Galvez of the University of the East in the semifinals and Victoria Ebdane of Canlas Fencing and Home School Global in the final.

Fencing activities in Gateway are set to resume this weekend, with Senior Division fencers set to take to the piste.

UE at cusp towards title retention

c/o UAAP

The first day of team competition saw the University of the East set themselves up for potentially another complete sweep of the fencing divisions of the UAAP Season 86 tournament Saturday.

The men's division saw the defending champions and their most likely challengers claim gold medals in two of the three disciples.

The Red Warriors defeated the University of the Philippines, 45-37 in the men's epee final, behind the efforts of RJ Perez, Aurell Obnuzar, Ramil Encilan, Jr., and Nicollei Felipe.

Claiming the bronzes in this event are the University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University.

The Tiger Fencers, comprised of Eunice Villanueva, Junior Fuenzalida, Kurt Marquez, and Larco Cortez, kept their slim hopes of potentially denying a tenth straight title from going to Recto by winning the men's sabre final, 45-37.

The Green Fencers led, 30-21 Larc Cortez scored twelve points for the hosts to cut the deficit to just 33-35. Marquez then outpointed John Michael Gajon, 7-1, to give UST a 40-36 lead, with individual champion Villanueva finishing off the match.

Settling for bronze medals in this event are UP and Ateneo.

With the foil disciple still left to be played, UE still leads UST, as the former has two gold and two silver medals, and the latter has two golds and two bronze medals.

For the women's division, UE claimed the lone discipline schedule, as they dominated against the UP, 45-29.

Andrea Matias outscored Nami Noro, 9-4, to convert an 11-13 deficit into a 20-17 lead and the Lady Warriors never looked back. scoring the necessary five points each from their next five matchups by her teammates Queen Dalmacio, and Eytria Olarte to clinch the title.

The Fighting Maroons still maintain hold on first place with a 2-1-2 tally, just edging out the defending champions by a single bronze.

Hosts UST are still in third with a silver and two bronze medals.

In the high school ranks, UE officially locked in the boys division by winning both events scheduled.

The quartet of Von Gale, Louie Shoemaker, Aljor Contado, and Ruzel Gallano defeated Angel Aberilla, Nathaniel Bernal, Armand Putian, and Christian Sarmineto, 30-29. Gallano locked in the title for the Junior Warriors by matching Armand Putian's eight points in their matchup.

Charles Babatio, Christian Concepcion, and Khiane Felipe took their turns in mastering Ateneo, 45-20.

La Salle-Zobel took bronzes in both events, sharing the epee with Ateneo and the sabre with UST.

In the lone discipline for the girls' division, La Salle-Zobel claimed the gold medal, fending off UE, 45-44 and preventing the Junior Warriors from potentially sweeping all high school disciplines.

With Opao Catantan giving UE a 30-24 lead after outpointing Venice Villenas, 8-1, La Salle-Zobel countered with an 11-2 burst from Martina Baccay against Willa Galvez to retake the lead at 35-32.

Villenas bounced back with a 5-4 result against Aubrey Fernandez, and in a mini-rematch from the individual final, Miyake Capina held off a game effort from Catantan to secure the gold.

Juliana Gomez repeats in epee, UP remains ahead in women's fencing

c/o UAAP

The University of the Philippines put themselves into a good position to break the stranglehold of the University of the East in women's fencing, thanks to their two-medal haul in Day 2 of the UAAP tournament at the Quadricentennial Pavilion inside the University of Santo Tomas campus on Friday.

Their first medal came from epee, with a successful title defense from Juliana Gomez.

The second-generation fencer pulled off a come-from-behind victory against Cyrra Vergara, 15-14, in a rematch of their Season 85 final.

Gomez shared afterwards, "I feel like I just hit a bull's eye because the target was the gold, but I was able to add to what Nana Carbonell did during the first day. It was honestly such a great feeling that we have a good chance of winning the overall for the women's."

Angela Dayro added a bronze for the Fighting Maroons in the individual sabre, allowing them to match Carbonell and Nami Noro's feats the day before.

Their two-gold and two-bronze total keeps them ahead of the University of the East, who notched their first gold in the division through a successful sabre title defense for Queen Dalmacio.

The two-time MVP had a tough road to the final, eking out a 15-13 win over UST's Kim Shaznee Tuy in the quarterfinals and a 15-11 win over Ateneo's Kaku dela Serna in the semifinal.

In the final, however, she manage to replicate her feat last season by defeating Janna Allysah Catantan, 15-7.

Janna's silver medal puts the hosts on level terms with La Salle in third place, with Vergara's silver and Krups Edlinag's bronze from epee allows the fencers from Taft to enter the fray.

Dela Serna's bronze for the Blue Eagles puts them on the board.

As for the men's division, UST was unable to capitalize on their momentum from Thursday, as defending champions UE and La Salle leapfrogged the Tiger Fencers with their performances in foil.

Shawn Nicollei Felipe took down Robert Cabaero, in an all-UE final, 15-8. The two took down their respective Green Fencer opposition in the semifinals to forge a beneficial final for their title retention hopes.

Felipe dispatched Jose Lorenzo Mercado, 15-6, while Cabaero beat Reindelle Lacerna, 15-9.

Even with the defeats, La Salle moved ahead of the hosts with the two bronzes alongside the gold they secured on Thursday in epee.

As for the high school division, the University of the East looks poised to extend their long reign due to their triumphs on Friday.

Opao Catantan kicked things off in the morning with a 15-12 final against compatriot Adrienne Lising in girls sabre, while Aubrey Fernandez did the same in the afternoon against Nina Canlas, 15-9 in girls' epee.

Louis Shoemaker and James Lim matched that in the boys' foil, with the former emerging as a 15-8 winner.

The Tuy siblings, Krystal and Kathleen, secured bronzes for UST, but they remain third behind La Salle in the girls' division as Miyake Capina and Martina Baccay also netted bronzes.

Both UST and Ateneo got their third bronzes through the efforts of Angel Aberilla and Derek Perez.

Saturday action at the same venue kicks off team play, with the morning session featuring boys' epee, women's foil, and men's sabre. Completing the slate in the afternoon are men's epee, girls' foil, and boys' sabre.

UST, UP make early collegiate fencing headway

c/o UAAP

The collegiate field seems ready to finally challenge the University of the East's dominance.

Day 1 of the UAAP Season 86 Fencing Championships kicked off on Thursday, with a successful title defense for Eunice Villanueva in the men's sabre.

The Tiger Fencer breezed through by sweeping the field in pool play, dispatching John Michael Gajon of La Salle in the quarterfinals, 15-1, then survived two Blue Eagles in the medal matches. He took out Andre Agatep in the semifinals, 15-11, and then outperformed Toby Cabrera in the final. 15-4.

When asked about how he managed to defend his title, the 24-year-old shares, "Ang ginawa ko lang talaga kanina ay nagdasal at nag-focus lang po ako."

His gold, combined with Adam Putian's bronze finish in the epee, means the hosts set the early pace in the race for the men's title, which would be the fourth one in their history.

Being able to pull that off is something Villanueva and the rest of his teammates want to accomplish. He says, "Gusto talaga naming maging kampeon. Susubukan naming panatilihin ito hanggang matapos."

Edan Ensamtan claimed the epee gold in the other men's division scheduled, defeating UE's Aurell Obzunar, 15-8 in the final. The Green Fencer's title moved them just behind UST in the title race, with Ateneo's silver and bronze in sabre putting them in third.

In the women's side, Nana Carbonell claimed the lone title scheduled, dispatching Eytria Olarte of the University of the East in the foil final, 15-12.

Olarte produced a stunning upset in the semifinals by claiming a 15-11 triumph over Janna Catantan of UST, while Carbonell easily dispatched fellow Maroon Nami Noro, 15-5.

Getting both fencers into the medal bouts allows UP to get a head start in the women's title race, with their defending champion in epee Juliana Gomez set to participate later Friday.

UE got better news in the high school ranks, thanks to a 1-2 finish in the boys' sabre by Charles Babatio and Khiane Felipe. The former claimed the title with a 15-11 victory.

Chasing the Juniors Warriors and hoping to prevent their decade-long dominance is the University of Santo Tomas, who earned the epee gold with a 15-7 victory by Armand Putian over Von Eubert Gale. The hosts also snagged a bronze thanks to an all-UST semifinal with the younger Putian dispatching Christian Sarmiento, 15-8.

Opao Catantan won the lone girls event scheduled, as the Junior Warrior fought off a game effort from Miyake Capina of La Salle-Zobel, in the foil final, 15-12.

Capina bounced back from going 1-2 in her first three pool matches to snatch the third seed, then survived the UST duo of Krystal Tuy (15-7 in the quarterfinals) and Patricia Daradar (15-8 in the semifinals) to set up a rematch against Catantan.

Aubrey Fernandez claimed the other bronze after she fell short against Catantan in an all-UE pairing.

The remaining individual matches will be decided all day Friday, with the morning session involving the girls' sabre, boys' foil, and women's epee. Capping off afternoon action are women's sabre, men's foil, and girls' epee.

In a first, the tournament will be streamed LIVE through Pilipinas Live, available online or through their app.