Sambo has become a growing sport in the Philippines, providing athletes with opportunities to compete internationally and achieve their dreams.

In an interview on the program DZRH TV Match Point, Sambo Union of Asia and Oceania Secretary General Suresh Gopi praised the country's potential, saying the Philippines was chosen to host the 2026 Asia and Oceania Sambo Championship because of the nation's strong talent base and the enthusiasm shown by local sports leaders and organizers.

“I always wanted an event to be held in the Philippines, especially a major event like our Continental Championship, primarily because of the talent base that is here. Second, the ease of communication with everyone here, because everyone speaks English and everyone understands the sport,“ Gopi shared,

“The Philippine Sports Commission is so enthusiastic and encouraging for us. It was a pleasure to meet the chairman. We immediately developed what felt like a symbiotic relationship, saying, ‘Yes, we need to do this, and the Philippines is the place,’” he added.

For national team member AC Yap, competing on home soil serves as both a challenge and a motivation, as he hopes to build on his previous success while drawing strength from the support of his family, friends, and fellow Filipinos.

Philippine Sambo Federation official and Asia Sambo Queen Sydney Sy-Tancontian shared that the sport has opened a lot of doors not only for her but also for many athletes, emphasizing that Sambo continues to create opportunities for Filipinos to compete, grow, and fulfill their aspirations.

Encouraging aspiring athletes, Sydney reminded young dreamers to take one step at a time and not rush their journey, stressing that with patience, hard work, and perseverance, success will come when the opportunity is meant for them.