By CHRISTAN SALVAÑA
The Philippines is set to welcome the world as it hosts the WKF Karate One Youth League from May 14 to 17 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Sanctioned by the World Karate Federation, the Youth League is regarded as the most prestigious international youth karate series and serves as a stepping stone toward the Series A and Premier League competitions.
The four-day event is expected to gather approximately 3,000 athletes, 500 international and local officials, and thousands of accompanying parents, families, coaches, and supporters.
Competition will feature the Under 14 (12-13), Cadet (14-15), and Junior (16-17) categories.
Focusing on the youth, the league naturally draws families and supporters, providing a boost to domestic tourism during the event period.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Pato Gregorio highlighted the benefits of sports tourism to the country.
“3,000 kids, hindi po pupunta ’yan na walang magulang. So kung 3,000 ang bata, kahit isang magulang lang, 6,000 na. Sa hotels pa lang, ₱75 million na po ’yan, wala pang pagkain, shopping, ’yan ang economic contribution,” said Gregorio.
Meanwhile, Karate Pilipinas President Richard Lim shared his thoughts on the country’s hosting of the event.
“It’s big, it’s personal, it’s my contribution to karate development in the Philippines,” said Lim.
This will mark the country’s first hosting of the world’s premier international youth karate series, in partnership with the PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, and the SM Group of Companies.
