Da Nang, Vietnam — The Philippine National Grappling Team delivered a landmark performance at the 2026 United World Wrestling (UWW) Asian & Oceania Grappling Championships, finishing 2nd Overall in the team standings and reaffirming the country’s emergence as one of the strongest grappling nations in Asia and Oceania.
Competing against the region’s elite athletes, Team Philippines showcased exceptional technical skill, determination, and resilience throughout the multi-day competition. The country’s impressive medal haul, highlighted by five gold medals, two silver medals, and three bronze medals, earned the Philippines its highest team finish in the tournament and underscored the continued growth of the national grappling program.
One of the defining moments of the championships came from Gabriel Del Rosario, who etched his name into tournament history by recording the fastest submission of the entire competition. Del Rosario secured victory in an astonishing 4 seconds, an extraordinary accomplishment that quickly became one of the most talked-about performances of the championships and demonstrated the explosive level of talent that Filipino grapplers possess on the international stage.
The Philippine delegation produced outstanding performances across multiple weight divisions, with athletes consistently reaching the podium against some of Asia and Oceania’s best competitors.
Team Philippines Medalists
🥇 Gold Medalists
- Charlie Ratcliff – 56 kg
- Travis Ratcliff – 62 kg
- Abe Del Rosario – 57 kg
- Denzel Alipio – 62 kg
- Yani Alexii Lopez – 57 kg
🥈 Silver Medalists
- Lucas Aguilar – 66 kg
- Nathaniel Nama – 63 kg
🥉 Bronze Medalists
- Alo Turingan – 73 kg
- Lucian Salud – 76 kg
- Joaquin Marte – 66 kg
Beyond the medals, every member of Team Philippines demonstrated exceptional discipline, sportsmanship, and the unwavering fighting spirit that has become synonymous with Filipino athletes. Each match represented countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and commitment from the athletes, coaches, trainers, and support staff who have worked tirelessly to elevate Philippine grappling to the international stage.
The Wrestling Association of the Philippines (WAP) views this achievement not only as a celebration of podium finishes but also as a significant milestone in the country’s long-term athlete development program. The results in Da Nang reflect years of investment in grassroots development, coaching education, national competitions, and international exposure, all of which continue to strengthen the Philippine grappling community.
The association likewise recognizes that this historic achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support of its partners and stakeholders. The Wrestling Association of the Philippines extends its deepest gratitude to the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for their continued trust, guidance, and unwavering support in providing Filipino athletes with opportunities to compete and excel on the international stage.
The association also expresses its sincere appreciation to the athletes’ families, local coaches, chapter heads, training partners, sponsors, volunteers, and every supporter who stood behind Team Philippines throughout its journey. Your encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in our athletes continue to inspire them to pursue excellence while proudly representing the country.
Special recognition is likewise given to the national coaching staff, team officials, medical personnel, and delegation members whose dedication behind the scenes ensured that the athletes were prepared to perform at their very best throughout the championships.
This remarkable performance serves as another important step in the continued rise of Philippine grappling. As the sport continues to gain momentum nationwide, the success in Da Nang demonstrates that Filipino athletes are capable of competing—and winning—against the very best in Asia and Oceania.
With a historic 2nd Overall Team Finish, ten podium finishes, and the unforgettable 4-second fastest submission by Gabriel Del Rosario, Team Philippines returns home with renewed confidence and invaluable international experience as preparations begin for future UWW continental championships, world championships, and other major international competitions.
The Wrestling Association of the Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to developing world-class athletes, expanding opportunities for Filipino grapplers, and inspiring the next generation to pursue excellence both on and off the mats.
Congratulations, Team Philippines!
Your achievements in Da Nang have once again brought pride and honor to the nation.
Mabuhay ang Atletang Pilipino. Mabuhay ang Team Philippines. 🇵🇭
