KIANA Marie Alagaban, a Grade 8 student of Bacolod Tay Tung High School, introduced herself in Asia when she finished sixth overall in the recently concluded Second Vitrigo International Cup held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Alagaban, who is part of the Philippine Training Pool, ranked sixth in ribbon event and eight in the balls and clubs.

The Bacolod City-based gymnast competed against nearly a hundred competitors from Thailand, Chinese Taipei, South Korea, India, Vietnam and host - Malaysia.

Alagaban is under the watch of Coach Kris Joy Leeping.

Tina Alagaban, Kiana's mother and MK Gymnastics chief, said that rhythmic gymnastics is still a developing sport in the province.

"With Kiana’s achievement, we hope that the Local Government can support as well the sport since this is a sport wherein if given focus can bring medals to us," she said.

"With Coach Leeping being a Level 3 FIG accredited coach, she has passed the highest coaching level given internationally so we can really be at par with other countries," she added.