Seventeen athletes and four coaches were given recognition by the province of Benguet on Monday following a successful medal haul at the 33rd South East Asia (SEA) Games held in Thailand last month.
Governor Melchor Diclas and Vice Governor Marie Rose Fongwan-Kepes awarded certificates and incentives to the athletes and coaches who represented the Philippines from Dec. 9-20, 2025.
“Naragsak kami — we are very proud of your achievements,” Diclas told the honorees, noting that their performance serves as an inspiration to the province and a testament to its commitment to sports excellence.
Wushu standout Jones Llabres Inso of La Trinidad led the individual honors with a gold medal in Men’s Tajiquan-Tajijian.
Joining Inso are fellow gold medalists Zyra Bon-as (Kickboxing, Women’s Lowkick 48kg) and Islay Erika Bomogao, who secured both gold and bronze medals in Muaythai Combat and Wai Kru.
Also honored during the Monday flag ceremonies is Billy Alumno, who coached the Muaythai team to a gold-medal finish.
Other notable performers recognized on Monday included Whinny Bayawon who won a silver in Kickboxing; bronze medalists Jason Baucas (Wrestling), Gina Iniong – Araos (MMA), Jean Claude Saclag (MMA), Denzel John Alipio (MMA), and Xander Leal Alipio (Wushu).
Multi medalists Mariane Marianao and Godwin Langbayan, who both secured two bronze medals in Jiujitsu were also honored.
The recognition also extended to the coaching staff, including Muaythai coach Edzel Ngina, Kickboxing coach Bryan Olod, and Lou Ann Hamada Ramos, who coached the triathlon and aquathlon events.
Provincial board members joined the executive leadership in pledging continued support for local athletes as they begin preparations for the next international competitive cycle.
Also present during the event is Team Lakay coach Mark Sangiao. Roderick Osis