La Trinidad, Benguet – Team Lakay’s “Benguet Explosion Martial Arts Tournament” is set to feature ten mixed martial arts bouts and three kickboxing matches on December 9 at the Wangal Sports Complex. Coach Mark Sangiao, in a phone interview on Wednesday, highlighted that the event will showcase athletes from across the country, representing various martial arts clubs and gyms.

According to Philippines News Agency, the event is a key part of the 123rd Benguet Foundation anniversary celebrations through the Adivay Festival, which had its main day on November 23. The tournament will be headlined by a bantamweight fight between Jean Claude Saclag, a Southeast Asian Games multi-gold medalist, and Ronald Regaldao. Other notable matches include ONE Warrior Series – Philippines champion Adonis Sevilleno against Reden Manguiat, Nahuel Gandolfi versus Rone Deliu, a catchweight bout between Joris Jonker and Mark Obrero, and a match-up of Conan Dela Peña and Neptali Ticar.

The undercard features John Ira Barrinetos versus Duane Pascua, Ezra Saclag against Wilmer Salpad, Firoz Khan versus Eugene Tabinga, and a featherweight clash between Jed Sayud and Daryle Wadasen. Adding to the excitement, kickboxing matches will see Gamebar Angcaway face Christian Gutierrez, Jyrisce Gean Legaspi take on Judah Paul Saingan, and a bout between lady fighters Jerlyn Kingad and Jhen Buzon.

Sangiao noted that two of the matches will be professional bouts sanctioned by the Games and Amusement Board, offering a special treat for the regional audience. He emphasized the importance of the event as a platform for budding athletes from different regions and clubs to gain exposure and experience before representing the country internationally.

Team Lakay, known for its La Trinidad-based gym, has been actively investing in grassroots development, exemplified by their recent ‘Future Champion Kids Training’ program. This initiative, participated in by 15 young athletes, aims to nurture a future generation of world-class fighters. The team boasts successful fighters like Eduard ‘Landslide’ Folayang, Joshua ‘The Passion’ Pacio, Kevin ‘The Silencer’ Belingon, and Honorio ‘The Rock’ Banario.