Mark Ashley Fajardo advances to SEA Games boxing semifinals as Philippines claims more medals

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Mark Ashley Fajardo advanced to the semifinals of the men’s 69-kilogram boxing division at the 33rd SEA Games on Friday in Bangkok after his Indonesian opponent, Jekri Riwu, retired due to an apparent elbow injury. The quick win guarantees Fajardo a bronze medal for Team Philippines and gives him momentum heading into his next bout.

Earlier in the day, Filipino teammates Hergie Bacyadan and Junmilardo Ogayre suffered losses against Thai opponents. Bacyadan dropped a 0-4 decision to defending champion Baison Manikon in the women’s 70-kilogram division, while Ogayre fell 0-5 to Sakda Ruamthan in the men’s 60-kilogram quarterfinals. Despite the setbacks, both fighters gained valuable experience on the SEA Games stage.

Mark Ashley Fajardo storms into the SEA Games semifinals after a lightning-quick win over Indonesia. [POC Media Pool]

Fajardo aims for a decisive win against Thailand

Fajardo will face Thai Sinsiri Bunjong in the semifinals and is determined to deliver a clear victory. “Fo-focusan ko po ‘yung next na laban ko kasi next na kalaban ko Thailand(er). Alam n’yo naman, host,” he said.

He emphasized that he will give his best to avoid a repeat of the challenges his teammates faced against the hosts. “Pagsisikapan ko po kasi ayun nga, gaya nung sa unang laban, hindi magpalugi iyan…Gagawin ko lang ‘yung best ko,” Fajardo added, referring to Bacyadan’s first fight earlier in the day. His focus is on turning momentum into a strong performance and maximizing the team’s medal chances.

Philippines still collects multiple medals

Despite earlier defeats, Team Philippines secured multiple medals from the event. Bacyadan earns a bronze for her performance in the 70-kilogram division, while Fajardo’s assured bronze in the 69-kilogram category adds to the delegation’s tally. Ogayre, though falling short, contributed to the national team’s overall campaign and experience at the Games.

The delegation now looks ahead to the semifinals with renewed focus. Fajardo is expected to face a tough challenge against Thailand, while the rest of the team continues preparation for upcoming bouts. The Philippines’ boxing program remains a medal contender across multiple weight classes.