CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Eleven-year-old taekwondo athletes Zhakari Zane J. Ebarat and Kissez Gemoto of Igpit Elementary School are seeking community support to compete at the Batang Pinoy national finals in Bacolod City this December.
Representing Misamis Oriental and the Municipality of Opol in the Mixed Pair event, the duo is raising funds to cover essential operational expenses for their 10-day national competition stint.
Grassroots Drive
The team is selling customized Batang Pinoy mugs for ₱250 each to reach a fundraising target of ₱15,000 per athlete.
"When you drink from this mug, you are not just holding something ordinary," Jhenel Gemoto, mother of Kissez, shared. "You are helping a young athlete get to the competition she has worked years for, and showing her that people believe in her."
Beyond mug sales, Zhakari's mother, Irislyn S. Jaraula, noted that supporters can assist through direct donations, sponsorships, or in-kind supplies.
"Any amount or form of assistance would be greatly appreciated and would go a long way in helping them represent the community," Jaraula said.
Funding Needs
While the Municipal Mayor promised transportation and accommodation assistance for the expanded squad, critical out-of-pocket operational costs remain unfunded for their 10-day trip.
"Despite this vital support, we still face critical unfunded expenses for this expanded group, specifically: Daily Food Allowances for the entire 10-day duration, Official Competition Uniforms required for participation, and Specialized Taekwondo Competition Gear & Equipment needed on the mat," coach Jechris R. Abcede explained.
"While funding these extra requirements is a challenge, our team remains extremely hopeful and determined," Abcede added. "Our sole vision is to reach Bacolod, compete at the national level, and bring honor and gold medals back to our community."
Athlete Journey
Kissez Gemoto began her taekwondo training at age four and previously qualified at the regional level in Team Poomsae and Freestyle in 2025.
"She’s 11 now, and in 7 years she has never really stopped kicking," Gemoto said. "What you don’t see on the mat are the early trainings, the falls, the matches she lost and learned from, and a child choosing to show up again."
"The gold medals are the result, but the real work is what happens before them," Gemoto added. "At 11, she is learning discipline, respect, and how to stand back up."
How Help
Community members, local businesses, and donors wishing to purchase mugs or extend support can coordinate directly with Igpit Elementary School.
Orders and contribution can be placed by contacting them through Facebook Jhenel Gemoto, JChris Rnoco Abs (coach), or Langlang Seriña Jaraula.
