Mr. & Mrs. Sinulog Muscle Wars 2023, one of the World Fitness Federation (WFF) Philippines’ first bodybuilding event of the year, started last Friday night in Cebu City.
Harson Dale Natividad, Ralph Andrew Labaton, and Elina Stokes were crowned overall champions in the event, which took place at the Mediterranean Room of the Waterfront Hotel & Casino in Lahug.
Their performances cemented their places among the federation’s pro card holders. A pro card is issued to a qualified WFF competitor, allowing him to compete in professional bodybuilding competitions.
According to WFF Philippines president and event chief judge Rogelio Bejemino Jr., these athletes will also represent the country in international WFF events.
Family, friends, and fans of the contestants flock to cheer on their favorite contestant, screaming and shouting every time they climb their sculpted bodies on stage until the final winners are announced.
AS Dhin Desabille and Dr. Marian Ibon of IDC The Medical Dental Societytogether with the representatives of the Talisay City Eagles Club Cebu, presented cash prizes and pro cards to the winners and overall champions.
Raven Alcoseba, Southeast Asian Games 2022 bronze medalist and emerging triathlon queen, Sheen Marie Torres, figure model, WFF Pro Athlete and 14-time bikini champion, Rylz Obispo, bikini pro athlete and event head organizer, gave the women their awards and congratulations. them for their achievements.
The attendees were entertained by the amazing intermission performance of Cebu Flame Artists and Disco Jammers (Cebu Best Dance Crew).
Marwin Batinga, WFF World Champion and pro athlete who is also one of the judges of the event, held an exhibition before the announcement of the pro card winners, flexing to the music with a little dance thrown in for in entertainment.
President Bejemino said the show was unique, especially since many fans stayed until 10 pm to watch the athletes receive their awards.
“We are rebuilding and getting stronger,” Bejemino explained. “We are planning a year’s worth of events to inspire and support more athletes who want to improve and succeed in their fitness careers.”
The one-day national competition featured over 50 bodybuilders from all over the Philippines, with prize money, trophies, medals, and supplements sponsored by Wise Choice Supplements, Smarties Apparel, The Fraternal Order of Eagles, Cebu Mantawi Lady Eagles, Talisay City Eagles. Club, Royal Danzk, and Merakini Sparkle.
Well-known professional athletes and experts in the fitness industry judged the ten categories: Marwin Batinga, Dhon Kiamco, Josephine Teria, Kristoff Amores, Dr. Scott JanStanly Inso, Sheinie Foster, and Sheen Marie Torres.
Among the categories contested are Bermuda Beach Model (Men’s New Comer, Natural, Open Short, Open Tall), Sports Model (Women’s), Jeans model (Men’s), Men’s Body Building (Under 70kg), Men’s Body Building ( Above 70kg). ), Women’s Bikini Newcomer, Women’s Bikini Open.
To see the complete list of winners, go to WFF Philippines Facebook page.
The event was initiated by Borgie Cabigas, former Mr. Cebu, Kapamilya host, and fitness athlete.
Bejemino ended the event by thanking all the sponsors for helping to make the launch of the event a success for the future events of the federation. He also invited everyone to look forward to the next Mr. & Ms. Philippines 2023, which will take place on July 1 in Makati City, and where the federation will award eight pro cards to deserving athletes.
