ILIGAN CITY — Iligan’s own Nawawie Pamaloy delivered a flawless three-gold sweep at the 18th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) World Championships in New Delhi, India, anchoring a dominant 24-medal performance by the Philippine national arnis team.

 Pamaloy, who secured his spot on the national squad through stellar performances in the Mindanao Qualifying Tournaments and national finals, conquered the upper weight ranks at the Talkatora Indoor Stadium. He took top honors in Padded Point (68–77 kg), Knife Point (68–77 kg), and Single Livestick (73–77 kg), finishing undefeated across all three of his event categories. 

Behind Pamaloy’s triple-gold showcase, the lean eight-member Filipino delegation hauled in a total of 19 gold, four silver, and one bronze medal during the Aug. 1–4 tournament. Accompanied by three national coaches, the team outclassed martial artists from 11 competing nations, including Australia, China, Germany, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Réunion Island, Thailand, the United States, and host country India. 

Joining Pamaloy in the triple-gold campaign were three other standout arnisadors. Ross Ashley Monville swept the 64–75 kg division by winning gold in Padded Point, Knife Point, and Single Stick. Dexler Bolambao dominated the 50.1–53 kg class with top finishes in Single Livestick, Double Livestick, and Bangkaw (staff). Junebert Bacor, a notable alumnus of the Rizal Technological University arnis program, claimed his three golds in the 65–68 kg category across Padded Point, Knife Point, and Bangkaw. 

The national squad maintained its momentum in the women's and lighter weight categories. Mary Allin Aldeguer (under 58 kg) earned golds in Non-Traditional Double Weapon and Knife Point, alongside a silver in Padded Point. Crisamuel Delfin of Benguet (under 53 kg) secured golds in Padded Point and Knife Point, plus a silver in Non-Traditional Single Weapon. Ma. Crystal Jane Sapio (under 58 kg) captured golds in Traditional Single Weapon and Padded Point, along with a silver in Bangkaw. Completing the delegation's sweep, Bryze Danielle Manaytay (under 58 kg) captured a full set of medals with a gold in Traditional Double Weapon, silver in Knife Point, and bronze in Padded Point. (Dave Achondo, Editorial Assistant)