Manila gears up to host 11th Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships next month
Manila is set to host the 11th Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships from June 23 to 27. The event, held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, will bring together over 600 athletes from 31 countries. Organisers anticipate the tournament will boost both sports and economic opportunities in the Philippines. The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is overseeing the championships under the newly formed National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC). This committee was established through Administrative Order No. 38, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to strengthen the country’s sports tourism efforts.
Government agencies, national sports associations, and private-sector partners have worked together to improve coordination for hosting international competitions. The International Sambo Federation (FIAS) has officially sanctioned the event, ensuring its recognition on the global stage. Among the participating nations, Cambodia will send a 42-member delegation. Other countries, including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Iran, Syria, Australia, and New Zealand, have also confirmed their interest in competing. Organisers are focused on making the championships a success, aiming to highlight the Philippines as a prime destination for both sports and tourism.
The tournament will run for five days at a key venue in Manila. With broad international participation, it is expected to draw attention to the Philippines’ ability to host major sporting events. The economic and promotional benefits could extend well beyond the competition itself.
