By PR | 07:51 PM June 09, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Boholano athletes once again showcased their talent on the national and regional stage after young weightlifters and a Muay Thai fighter captured medals in separate competitions, highlighting the province’s growing success in grassroots sports development.
The achievements came as Bohol’s Weightlifting Team, under Coach Liza Jaluag, delivered a strong performance at the 2026 National Weightlifting Championships in General Santos City.
Representing the municipality of Dauis, siblings Rich Niño Montecino and Princess May Montecino earned podium finishes against competitors from across the country.
Rich Niño won the gold medal in the boys’ 12-year-old category, while Princess May secured the bronze medal in the girls’ 11-year-old division.
Their victories were seen as a testament to the province’s expanding grassroots sports program, which continues to develop young athletes capable of competing at the national level.
Meanwhile, Boholano Muay Thai fighter Airo Virtudazo Saldua claimed the gold medal in the Senior Elite 60-kilogram male category during the Visayas leg of the 2026 Regional Muay Thai Championships held in Bacolod City.
Competing as Bohol’s lone representative, Saldua displayed composure and technical excellence to defeat some of the region’s top fighters and secure the championship title.
The athletes’ successes were supported through the Provincial Government of Bohol’s Leveraging Assistance for the Representation of Grassroots Athletes (Larga) Program, a flagship initiative of Governor Aris Aumentado implemented through the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) headed by John Maraguinot.
The program, aligned with the provincial government’s Strategic Governance Roadmap, provides financial assistance, training support, and opportunities for young athletes to compete in higher-level sporting events while representing the Bohol Island Geopark.
“These victories are not only personal achievements but victories for the entire province of Bohol,” Aumentado said.
“They prove that when we support our youth through programs such as Larga and the Provincial Youth Development Office, they can truly reach greater heights and achieve their dreams,” he added.
Provincial officials said the athletes’ achievements demonstrate the value of sustained investment in youth development and sports training, as well as the determination of Boholano athletes who continue to excel despite having fewer opportunities and exposure than competitors from larger sporting centers.
