By Edwin Rollon
Filipino karatekas, led by rising standout Raphael 'Rapha' Herrera, are gearing up for a stern test in the prestigious Karate One Youth League, with the tournament serving as a major opportunity to showcase the country’s emerging talents on the world stage.
For Engene Dagohoy, National mentor and Herrera’s Sensei at the Fight Alliance Sports Team (FAST) karate club, the tournament will provide Filipino karatekas a valuable opportunity to showcase their talent and prove they can compete with the best young fighters on the global stage.
“The Karate One Youth League is very important because this is where athletes can earn ranking points for the world rankings,” said Dagohoy during the Tabloids Organization in Philippine Sports, Inc. (TOPS) “Usapang Sports” forum on Thursday at the PSC Conference Room inside the fabled Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.
According to Dagohoy, collecting ranking points is crucial, as they serve as one of the pathways toward Olympic qualification in the future.
Among the country’s brightest prospects is the 12-year-old Herrera, a grade school student at Abba's Orchard School, who has been undergoing rigorous training in preparation for the world-class event.
Herrera said his dream of representing the Philippines has motivated him well in international competitions and proved that young Filipino karatekas can compete with the best in the world. The Karate One Youth League blasts off on May 14-17 at the MOA Arena in Pasay City.
“I’m training very hard every day because I want to improve my skills and make my family and coaches proud,” said Herrera in the forum backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, Behrouz Persian Cuisine, and Pocari Sweat. “I know the competition will be tough, but I’m excited to compete against strong athletes from other countries.”
”I watch videos of top karate players, and I try to learn from them,” Herrera said. “Someday, I want to compete regularly in international tournaments and represent the Philippines in bigger competitions,” stressed the young karateka.
Dagohoy added that Herrera has been focusing on sharpening his kata routines, improving discipline and consistency in training, and building confidence ahead of the tournament.
"Despite his young age, he dedicates himself to training. He listens carefully to instructions and always wants to improve,” Dagohoy said. “That kind of attitude is important if you want to succeed internationally.”
Herrera also shared that balancing school and sports has not been easy, but he remains determined to pursue his passion for karate.
“Sometimes training is tiring, especially after school, but I always remind myself of my goals,” Herrera said. “I want to win more medals for the Philippines and someday reach the Olympics.”
Herrera earned his spot in the Karate One Youth League after capturing the gold medal in the kata intermediate division during last month’s National Open in Tagaytay City.
The young karateka has steadily built an impressive resume at an early age. Last year, he bagged a bronze medal in the 2nd Asian Youth Open Karate Championships in China and also ruled the same event in the Batang Pinoy held in General Santos City.
His father, actor RR Herrera, said balancing academics and sports has become part of Rapha’s daily routine as the family continues to support his athletic dreams.
“Our support is vital for our child’s success. Of course, it can be expensive, but it is worth it once you see them happy and successful in the sport they love,” said Herrera. “To all parents, always be there for your children.”
Dagohoy revealed that Herrera’s preparation will not stop after the Karate One Youth League, as they are already mapping out a busy international campaign for the young athlete.
Herrera plans to participate in the Thailand Open in August, the Southeast Asia Championships, and the fourth leg of the Karate One Youth League in Italy in December after the tournament.
Despite the tough road ahead, Dagohoy remains optimistic about the chances of Herrera and other Filipino athletes competing in the global event.
He also expressed gratitude to the Philippine Sports Commission, under Chairman Pato Gregorio, and the Philippine Karate Federation, headed by President Richard Lim, for helping organize the tournament locally, giving Filipino athletes a rare chance to compete against world-class opponents without the burden of huge expenses abroad.
