Demonstrating discipline, determination, and excellence, AJ Sjibol M. Amada, a student from the University of Batangas Lipa City (UBLC) High School Department, proudly secured two silver medals in consecutive karate tournaments held in July 2025.
Amada first showcased his impressive skills at the 3rd Kagaku Shotokan-Ryu Invitational Karatedo Tournament on July 20, 2025, held at Alonte Sports Arena, Biñan, Laguna, where he claimed the Silver Medal in his division. A week later, he continued his winning streak at the 27th JKS Philippines Shoto Cup Open All Style Karate Tournament on July 27, 2025, at Robinsons Lipa, earning another Silver Medal against competitors from various schools and karate organizations across the country.
These back-to-back achievements underscore Amada’s commitment to excellence and embody the university’s core values of discipline and perseverance. His victories also reflect the UBLC High School Department’s continued support for holistic student development – nurturing academic and athletic excellence, and character formation.
UBLC takes pride in Amada’s accomplishments, which bring honor to the institution and inspire fellow students to pursue excellence in both academics and extracurricular endeavors.
Beyond his medals, Amada shared how he prepared for the tournaments, emphasizing consistency and dedication. “We have a regular training every week specifically every Saturdays and Sundays, and at home I continue practicing my sports,” he said, highlighting the discipline required to maintain peak performance.
When asked what these achievements mean to him and how the University of Batangas contributed to his growth, Amada expressed deep gratitude for the school’s support. “The recognition of the school boosts every athlete’s morale. Syempre po when you are recognized, ibig sabihin po tama po yung ginagawa niyo. Big deal po kasi if the support will come from the school because you know to yourself that you are doing something hindi lang basta laro,” he shared. He also expressed hope for even greater opportunities for student-athletes in the future. “More exposure – if the school will have its own karate club for the high school department, there will be more intense training and I could have a chance to join more tournaments, local and international din po sana.”
Reflecting on his beginnings in the sport, Amada recalled that his journey started when his parents encouraged him to join a summer karate clinic in the city. What began as a simple activity soon grew into a passionate pursuit that continues to shape his personal and athletic growth.
As a message to fellow UBLC students aspiring to excel in sports or other fields, he offered heartfelt advice grounded in experience: “Do not give up. Enjoy every training and tournaments talo or panalo, may medal or wala. Have a good sleep every day and don’t forget to study your lessons po – mahirap pero it’s for your own good to balance both worlds.”
Through perseverance, commitment, and the support of his family and the university, Amada brings pride to UBLC and serves as an inspiration to students striving to find balance and excellence in their chosen paths.