After a decade-long wait, the Philippines is once again on top of the Asian Cadet Taekwondo scene, thanks to the remarkable feat of Bacoleño jin Dondy Santillan Jr., who clinched the gold medal at the Asian Cadet Taekwondo Championships 2025 held in Sarawak, Malaysia on July 27 to 28.
Santillan showcased his grit and skill by overcoming formidable opponents from Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan to secure the coveted gold. His triumph marks the end of a 10-year gold medal drought for the country in the tournament.
Following a challenging run in the recent World Cadet Taekwondo Championships, Santillan turned his setback into motivation, training twice as hard. With the guidance and support of the Philippine National Team coaches, his perseverance paid off on the world stage.
Santillan is a sports scholar at Living Stone International School, where he continues to excel both in academics and sports. He trains under the mentorship of Pauline Sabido of the Negros Taekwondo Union-Tigers, a club renowned for producing world-caliber athletes and championing grassroots taekwondo development in the region.
Next up, Dondy Santillan Jr. is set to represent Bacolod City in the upcoming Batang Pinoy national youth games in General Santos City.*
