KARATEDO warrior Michael Abrio Pabillore of Cagayan de Oro showed why his family has been renowned in the martial arts world even the early retirement of his more illustrious kin.
In the recent 1st HMAS Hong Kong Karatedo Open Invitational Cup Tournament 2019, Pabillore unleashed his might to bag the championships in seniors kata category and kumite sparring category of the prestigious event held at the Stanley Community Hall in Hong Kong.
As the lone warrior representing the City of Gold, Pabillore said: "It was a great honor to fight once again representing my country and my very own Cagayan de Oro City. It's been 17 years since my last international fight in Japan (2002) and now I want to test my skill once again to bring honor to my own association (BMDA karatedo Association); my students were very excited for the results after the tournament and that what keeps me going."
Pabillore expressed thanks to Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno for the support and fellow Filipinos in Hong Kong for the encouragement and motivation.
"I am hopeful to inspire young athletes to push further and soon be the best in this sport with proper discipline," said Pabillore, whose relatives Kakay, Marna and Joey were accomplished karatedo performers in the international arena.