By I. Inojales | 09:00 PM June 01, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Bohol took center stage in the international bodybuilding scene as it hosted the 10th World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF) PHX 2026 on May 30 at the Bohol Cultural Center, marking the first time the prestigious competition was held in the province.
The event was hosted by the provincial government of Bohol under the leadership of Governor Aris Aumentado in partnership with the WNBF through the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO), further advancing the province’s sports development and sports tourism programs.
The international competition drew athletes from 15 countries, including Switzerland, Egypt, Japan, Singapore, and several other nations, highlighting Bohol’s growing reputation as a venue for world-class sporting events.
A total of 86 athletes competed across various categories, with nearly 40 percent of the participants coming from Bohol. The strong local representation showcased the province’s homegrown talent alongside international competitors.
The two-day event began on May 29 with athlete registration and check-in, tanning sessions, and a competitors’ orientation.
Competition day on May 30 featured contests in Physique, Bodybuilding, Classic Physique, Figure, and Bikini divisions.
Athletes competed in several classes, including Grand Master, Master, Junior, Teen, First Timer, Novice, Open, and Overall Championship categories.
Governor Aumentado said hosting international sporting events contributes significantly to the growth of sports tourism and creates economic opportunities for local communities, businesses, and tourism stakeholders.
“Dako kini og kontribusyon sa pagpalig-on sa sports tourism sa atong probinsya nga dako usab og epekto sa atong komunidad ilabi na sa atong ekonomiya,” Aumentado said.
Provincial officials said the successful staging of WNBF PHX 2026 reflects the provincial government’s commitment to youth development, sports excellence, and sustainable tourism under its Strategic Governance Roadmap.
The event also reinforced Bohol’s standing as a premier destination for international events and competitions, complementing its distinction as the country’s first and only Unesco Global Geopark and a regenerative island destination.
Among the major winners were Joemari Polo in the Physique Grand Master category, Jeffrey Cervantes in Physique Master, Ahmed Soliman in Physique First Timer and Bodybuilding Open Over 66kg, Edrian John Flores in both Physique Open (169-172) and Classic Physique Open (>168), Andrea Mae Obrero in Figure Open, and Rowena Limar Villarosa, who captured the Bikini Open under 156 centimeters title and was named Overall Pro champion.
The successful hosting of the competition is expected to strengthen Bohol’s bid to attract more international sporting events in the coming years while promoting local athletes on the global stage.
