Veteran internationalist Jinnefer Bertulfo showcased the Filipinos’ renowned flair for martial arts as she powered the Philippines to an impressive overall showing in the 9th Mombasa Open Tong-Il Moo-Do (TIMD) International Martial Arts Championship in Mombasa, Kenya.
Bertulfo spearheaded the Philippine campaign with an amzing six-gold medal haul, topping all the divisions she entered. The former national kickboxing silver medalist ruled the Gichoom, Individual Sparring Finweight, Individual Bon, Team Bon Women, Team Mixed Bon, and Team Special Technique events, emerging as one of the tournament’s most decorated athletes.
Behind Bertulfo’s golden run, Team Philippines amassed a total of 45 medals—19 gold, 19 silver, and seven bronze—to clinch second place in the overall medal standings of the prestigious combat sports meet that traces its roots to South Korea.
Host country Kenya topped the championship, which drew participation from 16 nations, including the United States, Japan, Thailand, Zambia, Turkey, and Iran.
Another standout for the Filipinos was Princess Minmi Ilustrisimo, who captured gold in the Individual Special Techniques and added bronze medals in Women’s Sparring Flyweight and Individual Bon. She also played a vital role in the country’s gold-winning performances in the Team Form Women, Team Special Techniques, and Team Mixed Form events.
The Philippine medal surge was further bolstered by strong performances from the rest of the delegation.
Mharjude Delos Santos delivered two golds and three silvers, while Cyrus Tumanda earned three golds and three silvers.
Reymark Bais collected three golds, two silvers, and a bronze, and Jocelyn Pablo added two golds and two silvers.
Other medalists included Aldrige Urianza, Vincent Laguerta, Jayson Purificacion, Rhenel Desuyo, and Marissa Arbolario, who each contributed to the country’s rich medal tally across individual and team events.
The team’s success was formally recognized by Philippine Embassy Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Maria Rosanna Josue, who congratulated the athletes during their send-off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on December 23, 2021.
Josue praised the delegation not only for their podium finishes, but also for representing the country with honor on the international stage.
“When you compete as athletes, you do not only carry our flag, but you also get to promote sportsmanship and camaraderie across cultures, and forge connections with other people as you transcend differences in opinion, language, and beliefs,” Josue said.
Bertulfo, expressing gratitude after her golden sweep, credited the collective effort behind the team’s success.
“A huge thank you to our host country Mombasa, Kenya, and Master Clarence Mwakio Ingalwa for the overwhelming hospitality and generosity,” she said. “To our very hardworking and supportive Master Nicky Rambuyon, thank you for believing in me and for the opportunity to represent our country. This victory belongs to all of us.”
Founded in 1979 by Grandmaster Dr. Joon Ho Seuk, Tong-Il Moo-Do is a comprehensive unified martial art from South Korea. With its strong showing in Mombasa.
