As a dedicated bodybuilding enthusiast, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the IFBB Nationals and IFBB Grand Prix events, and they were nothing short of spectacular. The new event location, in comparison to last year's event in Pampanga, was much more accessible to fans, supporters, competitors, and sponsors, allowing for a larger audience to experience the excitement firsthand.
However, this year's back-to-back scheduling of both shows presented a unique challenge. It meant witnessing the same athletes compete on consecutive days, leading to an expensive and grueling weekend for these dedicated individuals. While their competitors from the Nationals indulged in post-show treats and well-deserved indulgence, the athletes had to maintain their top shape and focus on maintaining their competitive edge. This tight schedule also left very little room for others to surpass those who had already competed, unless it was in areas like posing, where a standout performance could make a difference.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of both events was the remarkable lineup of female competitors. At the Grand Prix, almost every female participant showcased next-level abs and an undeniable level of conditioning that was unparalleled in other shows. These ladies were undeniably show-ready and elevated the competition to a whole new level.
For the Grand Prix, it is important to clarify that the two categories for the female athletes were Bikini Fitness and Body Fitness, which differ from the more commonly known bikini and figure categories. Bikini Fitness emphasizes a toned and athletic physique, with a focus on beauty, grace, and poise. On the other hand, Body Fitness places greater emphasis on muscularity, symmetry, and overall stage presence. Both categories demand immense dedication and discipline to achieve the desired level of fitness and showcase the competitors' hard work on stage.
Myra Golloso, a highly respected and renowned local bikini competitor, made her presence felt at both events. She not only graced the stage with her exceptional performance but also emerged as a winner, earning her IFBB Elite Pro Card at the Grand Prix, alongside Shai Ana Morelle. Their achievements were a testament to their outstanding talent and relentless hard work.
The impressive size and muscularity displayed by the athletes in the juniors category left the audience in awe. Witnessing such remarkable physiques on stage from these young athletes is truly inspiring. However, it is essential to acknowledge that their physical development is not solely attributed to their training efforts. The crucial role played by their coaches in guiding their progress and overall development cannot be overlooked. We place our trust in these coaches, hoping that they prioritize the athletes' best interests, safety, and well-being. Considering the exceptional talent demonstrated by these young athletes, it is not far-fetched to envision one of them becoming the future representative of the Philippines in the esteemed Mr. Olympia competition. This serves as an exciting testament to the ongoing progression and direction of bodybuilding in the country.
IFBB events are known for their high price tags, but they offer a level of expertise and expectations that are unparalleled by other organizations and individuals. The criteria set by IFBB for their athletes are universal and not limited to Asian-specific standards. These events serve as a gateway for athletes to potentially earn the opportunity and honor to participate in the prestigious Mr. and Ms. Olympia competition. And speaking of Olympia, having Ms. Olympia 2001 and Hall of Famer Juliette Bergamann among the judges was a tremendous honor for the events in the Philippines. Her presence added an extra level of prestige and reflected the caliber of athletes on display.
One athlete who truly stood out during the events was Ranel R. Munoz, who won his IFBB Elite Pro Card in Men's Bodybuilding. The pure happiness on his face when he received the award was a testament to the immense joy and validation that comes with years of hard work. It was a beautiful moment that resonated with everyone in the audience.
I particularly appreciated the organization's decision to separate the athletes from the audience by setting up a simple wall. This clever arrangement not only ensured a clear distinction between the competitors and spectators but also added an element of surprise and anticipation for each category, intensifying the overall excitement of the events.
While the events were exceptional, there were some minor hiccups, but what show doesn't have them?! These were minor but it included the repetitive nature of the digital board advertisements that became slightly annoying. Perhaps they could have utilized the board to display the running order or broadcast a live feed, enhancing the overall experience for the audience. And while the IFBB is notoriously known and respected for being strict with its schedule, it was surprising to see that the IFBB Grand Prix started over an hour and a half late. Despite this delay, these minor hiccups, both events were still exceptional.
In conclusion, both the IFBB Nationals and IFBB Grand Prix were outstanding showcases of elite bodybuilding. The level of conditioning and muscularity displayed by the competitors was truly awe-inspiring. If you were not inspired to hit the gym or elevate your fitness game after witnessing these events, then clearly you did not witness the same extraordinary display of athleticism and dedication that we did.
And without much ado, here are the TWO Winner's List from last weekend's IFBB events...
WINNER’S LIST
IFBB Nationals 2023
June 7, 2023
Malate, Manila
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- TEENS
CHAMPION Arkin Laguardia
2nd Gervin See
3rd Ralph Malonzo
4th Andrei Miguel Ramos
5th Alfonso Jesus Marquez
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- JUNIORS
CHAMPION Jose Emmanuel Eleazar
2nd Jan Neri Sevilleno
3rd Reinz Alfred Canono
4th Aeron Kirby Baniaga
5th Karl Facuri
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- MASTERS
CHAMPION Norman Molina
2nd Paul Vilando
3rd Jose-Miguel Rivera
4th Jose Dagsil Jr.
5th Rafael Godeloson
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- NEWCOMER
CHAMPION Bonifacio Baltazar
2nd Jason Mauricio
3rd Reinz Alfred Canaono
4th Kevin Racca
5th Jose Emmanuel Eleazar
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- SHORT
CHAMPION Aki Chan
2nd Norman Molina
3rd Danilo Sallutan Jr.
4th Arturo MAscarinas
5th Kim Roy Auza
MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- TALL
CHAMPION Remar Yumol
2nd Francis Bryan Sabidong
3rd Jose-Miguel Rivera
4th Dave Nasiad
5th Mark Manuel Ong
MEN'S FIT MODEL
CHAMPION Jason Mauricio
2nd Charjoe Teruel
3rd Kim Alexander Sarreal
4th Leonilo Sampang
5th John Marvel Gapas
WOMEN'S FIT MODEL
CHAMPION TATIANA YLAGAN
2nd Julie Ann Sangalang
3rd Alma Williams
4th Grace Miranda
WOMEN'S BODYFITNESS
CHAMPION Charisma Montierde
2nd Dovy De La Cruz
WOMENS BIKINI — MASTERS
CHAMPION Maureen Huertas
2nd Liza Docyogen
3rd Emelyn Al Sughayer
4th Josephine Nacilla
5th Julie Ann Sangalang
WOMENS BIKINI — NEWCOMER
CHAMPION Lourdes Marie Mallari
2nd Maricar Alconcel
3rd Linbert Kim Sarmiento
4th Leslie Ann Martin
5th Alma Williams
WOMENS BIKINI — OPEN
CHAMPION Myra Golloso
2nd Julianne Marie Amador
3rd Lourdes Marie Mallari
4th Maureen Huertas
5th Liza Docyogen
CLASSIC PHYSIQUE
CHAMPION Daniel Almeda
2nd Antonio Gamalinda III
3rd Xavier Manahan
4th Place ARTHUR GATBONTON SR.
5th Richard Godofredo Labitan
MEN'S BODYBUILDING — NEWCOMER
CHAMPION Richard Godofredo Labitan
2nd Alfredo Alan Canlas
3rd Francis Joseph Suzara
4th Reden Parungao
5th. Paul Brian Coroza
MEN'S BODYBUILDING — MASTERS
CHAMPION Ranel Munoz
2nd Nover Pognon
3rd Percival Canono II
4th Jefrey Calitisin
5th Jewel Ramos
BODYBUILDING - 65KG BELOW
CHAMPION Nover Pognon
2nd Richard Godofredo Labitan
3rd Reynaldo Namocale
4th Gino Marigsa
5th Paul Brian Coroza
BODYBUILDING - 70KG BELOW
CHAMPION John Homer Valmonte
2nd Daniel Almeda
3rd Jefrey Calitisin
4th Nad Nad Pambuena
BODYBUILDING -75KG BELOW
CHAMPION Xavier Manahan
2nd Jhun Canonigo Jr.
3rd Reden Parungao
BODYBUILDING - ABOVE 75KG
CHAMPION JULIUS ROYO
2nd Ranel Munoz
3rd Robbie Tangonan
4th Robi Miano
5th Pepe Joyo Jr.
WINNER’S LIST
IFBB Grand Prix Philippines 2023
June 8, 2023
Malate, Manila
* PROCARD Recipient
MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE
Champion Daniel Almeda*
2nd Nover T. Pognon
3rd Jeffrey Calitisin
4th Gino Mariesa
5th Alexander Mari D. Rizo
WOMEN’S BODYFITNESS OPEN
Champion Charisma Montierde*
2nd Place Dovy De La Cruz
MEN'S BODYBUILDING — UP TO AND INCLUDING 70KG
CHAMPION John Homer Valmonte*
2nd Nover T. Pognon
3rd Arthur Gatbonton
4th Jeffrey Calitisin
5th Gino Mariesa
6th Paul Brian V. Coroza
MEN'S BODYBUILDING — OVER 70KG
CHAMPION Ranel R. Munoz*
2nd Julius Jay Royo
3rd Robi Miano
MEN'S BODYBUILDING — OVERALL
1ST Ranel R. Munoz*
2ND John Homer Valmonte*
MEN'S PHYSIQUE — SHORT
CHAMPION Aki Cham*
2nd Danilo Sallutan
3rd Don Vincent Perez
4th Arturo Mascarinas
5th Leo Sampang
6th Charjoe Teruel
MEN'S PHYSIQUE — TALL
CHAMPION Dave Nasiad
2nd Reynaldo Yumol
3rd Kim Alexander Sarreal
4th Jose Dagsil Sr.
MEN'S PHYSIQUE — OVERALL
1ST Aki Chan*
2ND Dave Nasiad*
WOMEN'S BIKINI FITNESS
CHAMPION Myra Golloso*
2nd Shai Ana Morelle*
3rd Maureen Huertas
4th Elena Barinova
5th Mary Ann T. Gulane
6th Josephine A. Nacilla
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