CAGAYAN de Oro City — Five young Muay Thai fighters from Unified Mixed Martial Arts will carry Koronadal City’s colors at the Batang Pinoy 2026 national finals in Bacolod City after earning spots in the city’s official delegation.

Aged 13 and 14, the athletes made the roster after going through a series of tryouts that tested their skills, discipline and endurance on the mat.

Representing Koronadal in their respective divisions are: Christina Ilao, 14 — 45 kg, James Montefrio, 14 — 44 kg, Lyka Obidos, 14 — 42 kg, Kevin Pelere, 13 — 32 kg and Grant Tabosares — Muay Thai Squad

Their coaches said the young fighters showed determination and composure throughout the selection matches.

“The five athletes showed discipline, determination, and courage during the tryouts,” the head coach said. 

“They stayed focused and gave their best in every round and proved that they are ready to represent Koronadal City at Batang Pinoy.”

For Ilao, making the team was a reward for the work she had put into training.

“I felt really happy and proud of myself because all of my hard work finally paid off,” said the 14-year-old fighter. 

“My biggest lesson is to never give up and always trust the process even when things get hard.”

Montefrio said staying focused helped him push through his toughest round.

“During my toughest round, I felt tired and challenged, but I reminded myself why I started,” said Montefrio, who will compete in the 44-kg division. 

“I pushed through by staying focused and giving everything I had to win.”

For Obidos, the tryouts helped build her confidence.

“I discovered that I am stronger and more confident than I thought,” she said. “The tryouts taught me to believe in myself, even when things get difficult.”

With their spots secured, the young fighters are now preparing for the national finals through continued physical conditioning, skills training and mental preparation.

“I plan to train harder and stay disciplined,” said 13-year-old Pelere. “I will also work on my mindset and skills so I can be prepared for the competition in Bacolod.”

For Tabosares, the opportunity is also about representing their hometown.

“Representing Koronadal City means a lot to me,” he said. “I feel proud and honored to carry our city’s name, and I want to do my best at Batang Pinoy.”