Ezkrima Philippines proudly concluded its campaign at the 1st Tokyo International Fencing Competition held at the Keio Arena in Chofu, Tokyo, Japan, with an impressive three-medal haul. Across two days of action, the Filipino veterans secured one Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze, showcasing resilience, skill, and international competitiveness.

On Day 1, August 26, 2025, veteran fencer Beverly Gay Alarcon made a dramatic run in the Vet-50 Women’s Foil category. She delivered a stunning comeback against Kumi Sakaizawa of Yokohama Fencers in the pools, rallying from 0-4 to take a thrilling 5-4 win. In the Finals, Alarcon once again faced Sakaizawa and prevailed in a hard-fought 10-7 victory, clinching the Gold Medal for the Philippines.

Alarcon followed up with another strong performance on Day 2, August 27, in the Vet-50/70 Women’s Sabre. After defeating Yoshimi Murayama of Tokyo YMCA Fencing Club twice, including a 10-7 win in the Semifinals, she advanced to the championship bout. There, she battled Shinomi Hoshi of Nexus Fencing Club and secured a proud Silver Medal finish.

Ezkrima Philippines also celebrated a podium finish from Rodolfo Alarcon Jr. in the Vet-50 Men’s Sabre division. His pool stage victories included a 5-2 win over Kazunori Nakao of Nexus Fencing Club and a 5-3 triumph against Haroumi Hanada of Kodaira Fencing Club. His strong momentum carried him into the Semifinals, where he capped his campaign with a Bronze Medal finish.

A proud showing for Philippine fencing

Together, Beverly and Rodolfo Alarcon’s medal wins brought Ezkrima Philippines a total of three podium finishes, marking a strong international presence for Filipino fencing. Reflecting on the experience, Beverly emphasized the resilience required to compete in Japan for the first time, highlighting the physical demands, cultural adjustments, and inspiration gained from engaging with Olympians and elite coaches.

“This two-day campaign was challenging before, during, and even after the competition. We had to be resilient not only in our bouts but also in adapting to a new environment and culture, since this was our first time in Japan. At our age and in Japan’s summer heat, it was physically challenging going to the venue. Doing this for two consecutive days tested our endurance and perseverance. Yet beyond the medals, this was an honorable opportunity as we met Japanese Olympians and Olympic-level coaches, from whom we learned so much about high-level fencing. This experience has made us stronger, more persevering, and more resilient — and even more inspired to aim higher in terms of fencing,” said Beverly Alarcon.

Final Medal Tally for Ezkrima Philippines

• 1 Gold – Vet-50 Women’s Foil

• 1 Silver – Vet-50/70 Women’s Sabre

• 1 Bronze – Vet-50 Men’s Sabre

Ezkrima Philippines now looks ahead to future international tournaments as it continues its mission of promoting fencing excellence and inspiring the next generation of Filipino fencers.