Philippine Encuentro Championship 36 on January 25, 2025 in Makati: Passion Keeps Burning

Philippine Encuentro Championship 36

Historically, the Philippines is a fighting nation and home to warriors. In modern times, the Philippines has become home to world champions in boxing and MMA, a testament to our deep-rooted history. However, despite this heritage, as a nation, we face challenges in consistently being a world top contender. As the saying goes, everything has to start somewhere.

Most casual fans follow and recognize a fighter when they are already on the big stage, such as ONE Championship, UFC, Brave Combat, UAE Warriors, and the like. But these warriors had to go through a process, and someone had to search for, nurture, and give them the opportunity to succeed. This is where Rene Catalan of Catalan Fighting System and the Philippine Encuentro Championship steps in.

Passion to Find the Next Heroes Keeps Burning for Rene Catalan

Catalan Fighting System Philippines Gym

As the local MMA landscape evolves, many promoters have come and gone. Consistently promoting events has become difficult, and the economy isn’t helping either. We see the glamour of star fighters and big events, but local events have suffered, and some promoters have given up. However, not Philippine Encuentro Championship 36.

“Gusto ko makatulong sa mga mahihirap na mga atleta. Through this PEC event, magkakaroon sila ng good experience at magkaroon ng self-confidence at ma-motivate, mag-spark, at mag-pursige sila para magkaroon ng pag-asa makaahon sa hirap ng buhay at maging Philippine flag bearer,” says Rene Catalan.

I have attended a few of their events myself, held in their gym at the Catalan Fighting System Mixed Martial Arts Center. Based on my experience, I can witness how passionate the people are and how good the matchups are, even at this level. It’s just unfortunate that these events aren’t showcased in bigger venues and don’t receive much financial support.

“Mahirap lang kasi wala kami sponsor. Isang event ko, isang 60k pinakababa. Butas bulsa parati...hehe. Pero dahil sa passion ko to help, patuloy ang search for more Filipino heroes natin,” adds Rene Catalan.

Philippine Encuentro Championship 36

With limited financial assistance, the promotion has managed to unite 23 passionate team participants from all over the Philippines. These teams come to gain experience and prove they are worthy to be the next heroes from the Philippines.

Among the teams participating are:

Team Brew Brothers
Team RLima
Team Asian Kickboxing Academy
Team Baldugan
Team Batang Negros
Team JNS Fitness Gym
Team Meg Combat Sport
Team Bugno
Team Manahan MMA
Team Victory
Team Domade Pulsuhan
Team CFS
Team Ali MMA
Team Riverside
Team Yague
Independent
Team Waray
Team Cañete
Team Samar MMA
Team BJJ MMA
Team Bicol MMA
Team Trex

Team The Eraser Brothers

It All Starts Here

From a gym to the arena, it all starts here. You may not recognize the fighters and gyms, but you’ll never know what the future holds for them as they continue to fight for their dreams and goals. If you are within the area of 4008 Yague Street, Tejeros, Makati City, Philippines, please come by and support this event. Just don’t expect a posh event, as it is held inside the famous Catalan gym. Bring water because I’m sure it’s not just the fighters who will be sweating, as the fights and the atmosphere will be intense.

“Sa lahat ng mga athletes and coaches, patuloy lang tayo kahit mahirap. Mahihirapan man tayo, tuloy lang, huwag lang mag-give up. Balang araw bubunga din ang mga pinag-hirapan natin lahat at makatulong pa tayo sa maraming mahihirap na mga atleta,” Rene Catalan says.

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