Philippine taekwondo cadets eye success at World Championships

Eight players - six male and two female - will represent the Philippines in taekwondo at the World Cadet Taekwondo Championships from May 10-15 in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

Despite being a small team, the Philippine cadets are highly regarded due to their previous successes in the tournament.

The team members include Dondy Santillan Jr., Wynn Azmyth Dela Cruz, Achim Jeconiah Resimo, Mark Julian Santiago, Jian Axl Khloe Liyad, Jose Martin Omayan, Samantha Gley Duria, and Sophia Maria Bautista.

Backing the team are the Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, and the Philippine Sports Commission.

The Philippine Taekwondo Association noted that the Filipino cadets will face strong competition from traditional powers such as Korea, Iran, Russia, China, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Spain, Turkey, and the United States.

Former world champion Roberto Cruz leads the delegation, with Paul Romero and former Asian champion Kirstie Elaine Alora serving as coaches.