From Humble Beginnings to World-Class: Pilipinas Sambo’s Decade of Glory

 

Achieving greatness requires more than just talent—it takes relentless hard work, divine blessings, and strong support from government institutions. This has been the journey of Pilipinas Sambo Incorporated, a Davao City-based national sports association accredited by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), which after ten years has risen to become one of the best in the world, producing world-class sambo athletes and champions.

Founded and currently presided over by Paolo Tancontian, a former world-class judo practitioner from Davao, Pilipinas Sambo has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Sambo, a Russian martial art, was once relatively unknown in the Philippines, but through vision, discipline, and perseverance, it has now flourished into a powerhouse sport that continuously delivers medals in international tournaments.

 

The growth of the sport would not have been possible without the steadfast support of the PSC, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), and Davaoeño Senator Bong Go, who have stood firmly behind the organization’s efforts. Their backing has helped provide resources, opportunities, and recognition that have elevated Filipino sambo athletes to the global stage.

With its world-class reputation, Pilipinas Sambo now stands as a reliable medal source for the Philippines in prestigious international competitions. At the helm of this success is Paolo Tancontian, alongside a dedicated team led by coach Ace Larida and world sambo champion Sydney Sy Tancontian. Together, they have nurtured a culture of excellence that continues to inspire young athletes across the country.

Looking ahead, the future shines even brighter. With a solid foundation, strong leadership, and unwavering government support, Pilipinas Sambo is set to reach even greater heights in the years to come. From an emerging sport to a global force, its journey is a testament to how vision, faith, and perseverance can turn dreams into history-making triumphs.(Bob Braceros)

Aislinn Yap Clinches Bronze at The World Games 2025, Boosting Philippines’ Best Medal Haul

 

World No. 1 sambo athlete Aislinn Yap once again proved her world-class caliber after capturing the bronze medal in the Women’s Combat -80kg event at The World Games 2025. The Filipina powerhouse secured the win with a decisive 3-1 victory over Nicole Castro of Costa Rica, displaying remarkable skill and determination on the mat.

Yap’s triumph marks the Philippines’ second bronze medal in this year’s edition of The World Games, adding to two earlier silver finishes. With a total of four medals—two silvers and two bronzes.

The win also highlights the growing strength of the Philippine sambo program, which has steadily made its presence felt in the global arena. Pilipinas Sambo President Paolo Tancontian, a proud Davaoeño, expressed his joy over Yap’s performance, saying it was a testament to the hard work and dedication of both the athlete and her team.

Tancontian’s cousin, Ace Larida, who serves as Yap’s coach, also shared his pride, noting the long hours of training and preparation that led to the podium finish. 

With her latest achievement, Yap has further cemented her status as one of the brightest stars in world sambo. Her success not only brings honor to the Philippines but also motivates the next generation of athletes to aim high and excel in their chosen sports—even beyond the Olympic stage.

The Philippine team’s historic run at The World Games 2025 stands as a shining example of perseverance, unity, and national pride. As the country celebrates this record-breaking performance, the hope is that it will spark even greater support for Filipino athletes competing in all arenas, whether Olympic or not.(Bob Braceros)

Pilipinas Sambo to Hold 3-Day National Training Camp in Tagaytay

 

TAGAYTAY CITY — In its continued mission to elevate the level of Sambo in the country, Pilipinas Sambo Federation Incorporated is set to host a three-day national training camp on July 11–13 at the Tagaytay Combat Center.

The event will be headlined by one of the most respected names in martial arts, Sensei Hidemasa Tanaka, who is known for his deep understanding of combat techniques and his passion for developing athletes. The training camp will feature two daily sessions — one in the morning and another in the afternoon — providing participants with intensive, hands-on learning opportunities.

The entry fee for the full three-day program is P3,000, which includes free meals and lodging, making it both affordable and accessible for aspiring and experienced Sambo practitioners.

Pilipinas Sambo President Paolo Tancontian emphasized the importance of combining physical conditioning with technical mastery in martial arts.

“Physical training makes you strong, but techniques will help you improve even more — mas malalum na understanding sa Sambo,” said Tancontian. “The philosophy and scientific training — that’s what I want Pilipinas Sambo to achieve under my leadership.”

Tancontian also expressed his gratitude to the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Senator Bong Go, and the Philippine Sports Commission  (PSC) for their full support of the initiative.

With top-tier instruction, structured training, and national backing, this camp is poised to be a milestone in the development of Filipino Sambo athletes and the growth of the sport across the country.(Bob Braceros)

Guiding with Grit: Paolo Tancontian’s Fatherly Role in Philippine Sports

 

As the world celebrates Father’s Day on June 15, one man from Davao City stands tall—not just as a father, but as a pillar of strength and inspiration in the world of sports. Paolo Tancontian, president of Pilipinas Sambo Federation Incorporated, the national sports association based in Davao City, deserves heartfelt recognition for his unwavering dedication to both his family and the Filipino sporting community.

Under Tancontian’s visionary leadership, Pilipinas Sambo has evolved into a world-class organization that has produced top-tier athletes, including his very own daughter, Sydney Sy Tancontian, a world champion in her discipline. A former judo champion in his youth, Paolo has passed down not only his athletic genes but also his deep passion and discipline for sports—qualities that have helped mold Sydney into the champion she is today.

But beyond the medals and titles, what sets Paolo Tancontian apart is his role as a father figure to many Filipino athletes. Often working quietly behind the scenes during major international tournaments such as the Southeast Asian Games and the summer and winter Olympics, he ensures that every athlete under his watch is fully supported—be it in terms of logistics, morale, or overall welfare.

His commitment goes beyond that of a coach or an organizer. He becomes a guardian, mentor, and source of strength for athletes representing the country on the world stage. While many may not see his contributions in the limelight, the impact he makes resonates deeply with those who know what it takes to compete—and succeed—on the global level.

This Father’s Day, we salute Paolo Tancontian not only for being an outstanding father to his own children, but also for being a father to the many young Filipino athletes he supports and inspires. Kudos and heartfelt gratitude to this real-life sports dad whose love, leadership, and legacy continue to shape champions.(Bob Braceros)

Philippine Sambo Stars Shine with Double Bronze at World SAMBO Cup 2025 in Armenia

YEREVAN, ARMENIA — The Philippine national Sambo team made the country proud after securing two bronze medals at the prestigious World SAMBO Cup 2025, held in Yerevan, Armenia. The delegation was led by none other than World No. 1 in Women’s Sambo +80kg, Sydney Sy-Tancontian, a proud Davaoeña and a consistent force in international Sambo.

Sy-Tancontian delivered a strong performance in the Sport Sambo Women’s +80kg category, clinching the bronze medal. Sharing the podium with her was Elene Kebadze of Georgia, while Maryia Kandratsyeva (FIAS 2) claimed gold and Albina Cholombitko (FIAS 1) took silver.

Adding to the Philippines’ medal haul, Aislinn Agnes Yap also brought home a bronze in the Combat Sambo Women’s -80kg category, further cementing the presence of Filipina warriors on the global Sambo stage.

Marwin Quirante also represented the country in the Combat Sambo Men’s -58kg division, showcasing grit and determination against the world's best.

The remarkable achievements of the national sambists reflect the growing strength of the Philippines in the global Sambo community, highlighting the fruits of relentless training, discipline, and the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Pilipinas Sambo Federation.

"WORLD'S NUMBER ONE: Sydney Sy Tancontian Reigns Atop Global Sambo Rankings"

 

After an impressive string of performances on the world and Asian stage, Sydney Sy Tancontian of Pilipinas Sambo has achieved a historic milestone — claiming the top spot in the women's heavyweight category of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) world rankings.

A proud native of Davao City, Sydney amassed a total of 720 points, gaining an additional 11 points from her recent back-to-back stellar showings. This remarkable climb to number one is even more astounding considering she was only ranked 13th in 2024.

Sydney, the daughter of Pilipinas Sambo National President Paolo Tancontian, has long been a dominant force in the sport. She is a multiple-gold medalist in the Asian Sambo Championships, earning her the title of "Asian Sambo Queen."

Beyond her prowess on the mat, Sydney also shines in leadership. She currently serves as the Chairperson of the Athletes' Commission of FIAS, following two consecutive terms as commissioner.

A true scholar-athlete, Sydney is pursuing her studies at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), where she once ruled the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women's judo division, securing the title for four straight years.

Sydney Sy Tancontian's rise to the world's number one spot is a testament to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and excellence — a shining inspiration for Filipino athletes everywhere.

Sydney Sy-Tancontian Shines Gold at Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships in Uzbekistan

 

                        

Photo courtesy: Pilipinas SAMBO Federation Inc. - PSFI

DAVAO CITY — Davaoeña pride Sydney Sy-Tancontian once again brought honor to the Philippines as she stood tall at the podium, claiming the gold medal in the Women’s +80kg Sport Sambo category at the prestigious Asia and Oceania Sambo Championships held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Sy-Tancontian showcased her strength and skill by defeating Mongolia’s Buyanzaya Ser-Ochir in a thrilling final bout. Her victory helped propel the Philippines to third place in the overall medal tally with an impressive haul of two golds and one silver.

Also representing the country with pride were athletes Mark Edward Striegl and Orlando Castillo Jr., who delivered remarkable performances against tough competition from across the region.

This golden triumph not only highlights the excellence of Filipino athletes on the international stage but also affirms that indeed, #BidaAngBayaningManlalaro!

Paolo Tancontian Re-Elected as Pilipinas Sambo Federation President, Leads Organization to New Heights

 

Davao City native Paolo Tancontian was re-elected as president of the Pilipinas Sambo Federation during an election held at a local hotel in Davao City on December 21, 2024. Tancontian, the founder of the Davao-based national sports association, will serve alongside his newly elected officers from 2025 to 2028.

"I am honored to have been re-elected as President of the Philippine Sambo Federation (PSFI). I extend my deepest appreciation to all our members for their unwavering support and belief in our shared vision: to elevate and expand the reach of Sambo within the Philippines. Together with our newly elected officers, we are committed to surpassing our previous accomplishments and driving Sambo to even greater heights. We will work tirelessly to ensure its continued growth and success. Maraming salamat po sa inyong tiwala at suporta," Tancontian said.

The newly elected officers include James Leetong as first vice president, Roselyn Dayanan as second vice president, Janet T. Sy as secretary general, and Rhea Mae Relampagos as treasurer. Additionally, Engr. Ralph Yee and Dr. Rover Magdale will serve as members of the board of directors. Several commissioners were also elected, as seen in the accompanying photo.

A Legacy of Excellence

Under Tancontian’s leadership, Pilipinas Sambo has achieved remarkable milestones on the international stage. Filipina athletes brought home three medals from global competitions in 2024, solidifying the country’s position in the sport.

At the 2024 World Beach SAMBO Championships in Casablanca, Morocco, held on September 7-8, Davao City natives Sydney Sy-Tancontian and Jeniva Consigna earned bronze medals in their respective categories. Consigna (-72kg) defeated Dauletzhan Nazereke of Kazakhstan in an impressive match, while Sy-Tancontian (+72kg) advanced to the semifinals after a thrilling victory over Guinea’s Sylla Ramatoulaye in the quarterfinals.

Adding to the federation’s achievements, Aislinn Yap claimed the gold medal in the 80kg Combat SAMBO Women's division at the 2024 World SAMBO Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. Yap’s triumph as a world champion, along with strong performances from her teammates, underscores Pilipinas Sambo's growing reputation as an international contender.

Strengthening Grassroots Development

The Pilipinas Sambo Federation has also prioritized grassroots development. From December 16-22, 2024, the organization conducted training sessions for students of Sta. Ana National High School in Davao City. This initiative aims to nurture young talent and further expand the sport’s reach across the Philippines.

With his re-election, Paolo Tancontian is poised to lead the federation to even greater success, fostering a new generation of athletes while solidifying the country’s position in the global SAMBO community.

Igniting Passion for SAMBO: Sta. Ana National High School Hosts 5-Day Training Seminar

 

Davao City, Philippines – Sta. Ana National High School, in collaboration with the Philippine Sambo Federation, Inc. (PSFI), is set to host an exciting Introduction to SAMBO seminar and training program. This five-day intensive event will take place from December 11 to 15, 2024, at the school grounds.

The seminar aims to introduce young athletes and martial arts enthusiasts to the dynamic world of SAMBO, a Russian martial art that blends wrestling, judo, and boxing techniques. Participants will gain hands-on experience from some of the country’s top SAMBO professionals, including:

Godwin Langbayan – Jiujitsu World Champion

Robin Catalan – SEA Games Gold Medalist

Orlando Castillo Jr. – MMA Champion

Head Coach Ace Larida

Sydney Tancontian – FIAS Athletes Commission Chairperson and multi-medalist in SAMBO

The training sessions will cover essential techniques in combat and sport SAMBO, while also exploring the sport’s history, rules, and etiquette.

This initiative is spearheaded by PSFI President Paolo Tancontian, in partnership with Sta. Ana National High School’s Principal Welito Rosal and Roselyn Dayanan, with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Office of DepEd Secretary Eduardo Angara.

An estimated 200 participants are expected to join this transformative event, promising an enriching experience for aspiring athletes and martial arts enthusiasts alike.

About SAMBO

Originating from Russia, SAMBO—short for SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya (self-defense without weapons)—is a martial art celebrated for its effectiveness in sport and self-defense. With its unique combination of wrestling, judo, and striking techniques, it continues to captivate combat sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Mark your calendars and be part of this extraordinary journey into the art of SAMBO!

Pilipinas Sambo won 2 silver medals in 2024 Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships 1st day

 

Macau, China - The Philippine Sambo national team won two silver medals from , two-time Asian champion Sydney Sy-Tancontian and Paris Open titlist Aislinn Yap on the first day of the competition of the 2024 Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships at Forum de Macau Stadium. 

The six-time World medalists are happy in the runner-up finish after Feruza Khurozova of Uzbekistan scored 1-6 in the women's over+80kgs division.

The 24-year-old Davaoena multi-medalist has returned to the prestigious competition after a year in hiatus in the field after reaching the 2019 New Delhi, India and 2022 Jouneih, Lebanon editions. Sy-Tanctontian’s graduation from the University of Santo Tomas and being busy with the activities of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) as the chairperson of the FIAS Athletes Commission have been an important point of attention. 

Sy-Tancontian was the first to score 1-0 because of the penalty, but saw a way for the Uzbek samboist to turn around to score 1-2 towards the grounds to win the 1-6 advantage. 

Yap was beaten by Madina Yerzhan of Kazakhstan to finished in the final of the women's under-80kgs in the silver medal.

The 26-year-old 2024 Judo National double gold medalist won her bronze medal in the 2023 edition in Astana, Kazakhstan in the same category, while hoping to enter the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China in competing in the women's combat sambo in both divisions. 

Philippines Sambo Federation Inc. President Paolo Tancontian who despite the impressive performance of the national team from the seven representatives of the country for sports sambo still hope the country can compete more in Asia since most world champions comes from Asia.

"I consider this a good performance from our athletes compared to last year because we improve a lot in terms of medal we obtain, however we still have a lot of room for improvement and everyday is a learning process becuse Asia is considered a world class level and strong really this," said 

At the 2025 World Games for combat sports, Tancontian hoped they could get slots for Yap, Marianne Mariano (women's 59kgs), Jomary Torres (woman's 54kgs) and Robin Catalan (men's 58kgs). 

Pilipinas Sambo Federation Team Gears Up for ASEAN Oceania Sambo Championships 2024 in Macau

 

The Pilipinas Sambo Federation is set to showcase its strength and skill at the ASEAN Oceania Sambo Championships 2024, which will be held on June 29-30 in Macau. To prepare for this highly anticipated tournament, the team underwent an intensive training camp in Tagaytay City, honing their techniques and strategies under the guidance of experienced coaches.

The team, composed of both sport and combat sambo athletes, includes:

Sport Sambo:

Edemel Catalan - Men's -58 kg

Janry Pamor - Men's -64 kg

Cresente Navares - Men's -71 kg

Chino Sy-Tancontian - Men's -98 kg

Aumangel Cortez - Women's -59 kg

Sydney Sy-Tancontian - Women's +80 kg

Combat Sambo:

Robin Catalan - Men's -58 kg

Godwin Langbayan - Men's -64 kg

Mcleary Ornido - Men's -71 kg

Jomary Torres - Women's -54 kg

Mariane Mariano - Women's -59 kg

Aislinn Yap - Women's -80 kg

The team is coached by a trio of seasoned mentors: Ace Larida, Jerry Legaspi, and Gerard Arce. Their combined expertise has been pivotal in preparing the athletes for the rigors of international competition.

Intensive Preparation in Tagaytay City

The training camp in Tagaytay City was crucial for the athletes, providing them with an environment conducive to focused training and physical conditioning. The camp included rigorous sparring sessions, tactical drills, and comprehensive fitness programs designed to enhance their endurance, strength, and agility.

The athletes also benefited from the high altitude of Tagaytay, which is known to improve cardiovascular performance. This preparation is expected to give the team a competitive edge in the championships.

Eyes on the Prize

The Pilipinas Sambo Federation team is poised to make a significant impact at the ASEAN Oceania Sambo Championships. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the team aims to bring home medals and elevate the profile of sambo in the Philippines.

Edemel Catalan and Robin Catalan are among the standout competitors, bringing their extensive experience in international competitions. Meanwhile, Sydney Sy-Tancontian and her brother Chino Sy-Tancontian are also expected to be key contenders in their respective categories, given their impressive track records and dedication to the sport.

Looking Forward

The participation of the Pilipinas Sambo Federation team in the ASEAN Oceania Sambo Championships marks a significant milestone in their journey to promote and develop sambo in the country. As the athletes step onto the mat in Macau, they carry with them the hopes and support of their nation.

The competition promises to be a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and determination, and the Philippines will be watching closely, cheering on their sambo warriors as they strive for glory on the international stage.

Davaoeono gets gold in 2024 Grand Prix de Sambo de Paris

A promising Davaoeno Sambo practitioner has won a gold medal in the tough and prestigious 2024 Grand Prix de Sambo de Paris in Stade Charléty salle Charpy,17 Avenue Pierre de Paris.

Davaoeo Chino Sy -Tancontian, a  2024 Dutch Open gold medallist won the gold in the 98-kilogram category after beating Didier Biansomba last June 1.

Aside from Tancontian, Aislinn Agness Yap, a  2023 Asian & Oceania SAMBO Championship Bronze Medallist also won the gold in the 80 kilogam category girls.

Yap beat Joannie Delbar.

Veteran Sambo practitioner Mark Striegl, a  2023 SEA SAMBO Gold Medalist won the bronze medal in the  71-kilogram combat Sambo category.

Paolo Tancontian, the president of Pilipinas Sambo is very happy with the performance of his athletes in the international martial arts competition.

Tancontian thanked Senator Bong Go and the Philippine Sports Commission for making the campaign possible. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Davaoeono, 2 other Pinoys targets medals in 2024 Grand Prix de Sambo de Paris

A promising Davaoeno Sambo practitioner and two other Filipinos are joining the tough and prestigious 2024 Grand Prix de Sambo de Paris in Stade Charléty salle Charpy,17 avenue Pierre de

Coubertin 75013 Paris, France on June 1.

Davaoeo Chino Sy -Tancontian, a  2024 Dutch Open gold medallist will compete in the 98 kilogram category.

Aislinn Agness Yap, a  2023 Asian & Oceania SAMBO Championship Bronze Medal will compete in the 80 kilogam category.

Mark Striegl, a  2023 SEA SAMBO Gold Medalist will seek a medal in the 71-kilogram combat Sambo category.

Paolo Tancontian, the president of Pilipinas Sambo expressed thanks to Senator Bong Go and Philippine Sports Commission for making this campaign possible.

Tancontian is confident the three Samboists will do well in the competition set to participated in by some of the top Sambo practitioners around the world.(Romeo Braceros Jr,)

After 27 years of waiting, Davao's Tancontian family gets a gold medal in the national judo open weight category

 

DAVAO CITY—After 27 years of waiting, a third-generation member of the famed martial arts family Tancontian here has regained the gold medal in the national open weight category.

On April 28, Davaoeno Chino Sy Tancontian won the coveted gold in the open weight category in the national judo championship.

Tancontian is the son of Paolo Tancontian, the president of Pilipinas Sambo, who also won gold in the open weight category in the 1997 national judo championship.

Paolo, for his part, followed in the footsteps of his uncle Romeo, who won the 1967 National Judo Open Weight category.

In the numerous medals won by the Tancontian family, Chino's judo gold in the open weight category is the third for their family.

Paolo is very happy and proud of the medal of his son since it just showed the training and dedication of their family in Sambo and Judo, which has yielded another gold.

The Tancontian family's contribution to Davao City's sports history is immeasurable, and we are just happy that they continue to bring honor to our beloved city even today. (Romeo Bracerosn Jr.)

Tancontian family of Davao won four medals in Netherlands Sambo Open

DAVAO CITY—On a unique occasion, four members of the local Tancontian family took home four of the five medals the Philippines earned at the 2024 Dutch SAMBO Open, which took place in the Netherlands on March 3.

The 80-kilogram senior sport was won by Sydney Sy Tancontian and the 98-kilogram senior sport by Chino Sy Tancontian, the Tancontian siblings.

In the 88-kilogram sports masters category, Ace Larida, the Tancontian sibling's uncle, also took home the gold.

 
In the meantime, Paolo Tancontian, Larida's cousin and the sibling's father, won the silver medal in the 98-kilogram Sports Master.

Moreover, Aislinn Tap took home the bronze in the 80-kilogram Senior Sport

Paolo, the president of Pilipinas Sambo is happy and grateful for their win.

In a Facebook post, he thanked everyone who helped them on their trip and win.

Our heartfelt gratitude to Senator Bong Go, the Philippine Sports Commission, and POC - Philippine Olympic Committee - Olympic.PH  for the support to the team.

We would also like to thank the host and organizing committee of Sambo Bond Nederland for a well-organized and successful event participated by more than 250 athletes worldwide. 

Maraming salamat po! 

Davaoena was elected as athlete representative in the World Sambo body

During a recent online meeting, Davaoena Sydney Sy Tancontian was voted as the first Filipino chairperson of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) Athletes Commission.

The four-member panel, led by Tancontian, 24, the daughter of Paolo Tancontian, the Pilipinas Sambo Federation Inc. president, was established during the international federation's assembly held in Yerevan, Armenia, last November.

"Coming from a country that just recently started the development of the sport, it became my mission to represent SAMBO in my country, the Philippines, and the Southeast Asia region. I applied for a position in the Athlete's Commission as a member back in 2019 because I was inspired by my predecessor, Mrs. Laure Fournier - a great athlete, an eloquent speaker, and a fantastic mentor. SAMBO has given me great opportunities to develop not only my athletic career but also helped me in my personal growth as an individual," Tancontian said.

"Now that I will be chairing this commission, it's my responsibility to create friendships and a safe space for my fellow athletes to speak up and voice their thoughts so that the sport will continue to grow and thrive through the athletes' voices," Tancontian added. 

Tancontian is a three-time bronze medallist in the plus 80 kg division at the world championships and won a gold medal in the 2022 Asian tournament.

Tancontian, who graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a Science in Fitness and Sports Management degree, will serve as chairperson of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) Executive Committee.

Tancontian expressed gratitude to the Philippine Sports Commission, FIAS, and President Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino of the Philippine Olympic Committee for supporting the sport in the nation. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)