Young martial artists from the University of Batangas (UB) Grade School department proved their mettle on the national stage during the 13th ISKF Ryo Shotokan Karatedo Open Championship. The high-stakes tournament, held at Starmall EDSA – Shaw on March 15, 2026, drew elite practitioners from across the country to test their technical precision and fighting spirit.
Dean Caleb A. Montalbo, a Grade 6 student representing the Palma section, delivered a standout performance in the 12-13 Years Old Advanced brackets. He captured the Silver Medal in Advanced Kata, impressing judges with the sharp execution of his forms. Montalbo complemented this feat by securing a Bronze Medal in Advanced Kumite, demonstrating tactical agility and resilience during his sparring matches.
Following this lead, Ryu M. Garcia from Grade 3 – Newton showcased remarkable maturity in the 8-9 Years Old Advanced division. Garcia earned two Bronze Medals, placing in both Advanced Kata and Advanced Kumite. His dual-medal win highlights the depth of talent within the UB Grade School’s junior ranks and the effectiveness of their consistent training regimen.
UB recognizes that elite sports participation plays a pivotal role in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to the holistic development of future leaders. Through their dedication to Karatedo, these students promote the importance of physical fitness and mental health, fulfilling the core objectives of SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. The university’s support for martial arts further encourages a lifestyle of discipline and wellness.
By providing opportunities for students to test their skills in national arenas, UB ensures a well-rounded education in line with SDG 4: Quality Education. Competitive sports teach critical life skills – such as grit, respect, and focus – that academic textbooks alone cannot provide. Furthermore, these young athletes embody the spirit of non-violence and respect for rules, fostering the foundational values necessary for a peaceful and just society as outlined in SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Traditional Karatedo emphasizes the “dojo kun,” or the pursuit of character and self-restraint, which aligns perfectly with the creation of strong, ethical institutions.