Nine well-trained Filipino jins will compete in the second open qualification round of the 2018 World Taekwondo Grand Slam Championships on Oct. 26-28 in Wuxi, China.
Carrying the colors of SMART/MVP Sports Foundation, the Philippine campaigners in the prestigious event are Francis Aaron Agojo (-58 kilograms), Jenar Torillos (-58 kg), Arven Alcantara (-68 kg), Samuel Thomas Harper Morrison (-80 kg),and Dave Cea (-80 kg).
Comprising the ladies cast are Baby Jessica Canabal (-49 kg), Pauline Louise Lopez (-57 kg), Rhezie Aragon (-57 kg) and Darlene May Arpon (-67 kg).
The officials accompanying the team are Dindo Simpao, head and coach; John Paul Lizardo and Carlos Jose Padilla V, coaches.
The Filipinos will see action against national athletes from 59 other countries like Korea, France, Spain, Iran, Turkey, Chinese Tapei and the United States.
The tournament also serves as a tuneup for the Philippine team’s participation in prestigious 2019 international events like the World Championships, Asian Open Championships and the Korea Open, among others.
Supporting the Filipinos’ campaign are PLDT, Meralco, the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.