THE search for a new batch of promising taekwondo jins continues as the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) stages the 2026 Smart/MVPSF National Championships this Saturday and Sunday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The association, under the able leadership of Grandmaster Sung-Chon Hong, is expecting a record number of participants this year, noting the Korean Martial Arts is gaining more attention from all walks of life.
All chapters from across the country are fielding their top players in the two-day tournament backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.
Collegiate standouts from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines and National Collegiate Athletic Association and all branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police are seeing action.
The competition is for individuals in both Advanced and Novice divisions, featuring the Seniors, Juniors, Cadet, Gradeschool and Toddler (male and female) categories.
The tournament will utilize the taekwondo officiating system-KPNP Protector and Scoring System (PSS) and the Instant Video Replay (IVR)-to eliminate human error and enhance all PTA championships.
Elimination round starts at 9 a.m. with the opening ceremony slated on July 25 at 1 p.m. to be highlighted by a performance from the Philippine Demonstration Team.