KATHMANDU—The Philippines achieved a historic feat by securing both the men’s and women’s titles at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy, held at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal, over the weekend. The victories marked a significant milestone for Philippine rugby as the national teams displayed exceptional skill and teamwork.
According to Philippines News Agency, the men’s team, coached by Darryl Suasua, triumphed over Chinese Taipei with a 27-12 victory in the final, showcasing their dominance in the tournament. The women’s team, under coach Samantha Scott, delivered a hard-fought 7-5 win against India in their final match, rounding off a weekend of outstanding performances by both squads.
Ada Milby, president of the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU), expressed her pride in the teams’ accomplishments. “Winning double gold at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy is a historic achievement for Philippine rugby, and it reflects the hard work of the athletes, coaches, and support staff to make it happen,” she said in a press release. Milby emphasized the importance of this victory for the continued growth and development of rugby in the Philippines.
Following their victories, the Philippines will return to the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series next year, continuing their momentum on the international rugby stage. The Volcanoes’ success is the result of an intensive training camp and a competitive selection process that has strengthened both the men’s and women’s programs.
The men’s squad included co-captains Kai Ledesma Stroem and Harrison Carceller Blake, alongside Dayton Iobu, Donald Canon Coleman, George Rosal Nield, Jake Soriano, Jonel Madrona, Michael Gomez Blatties, Ned Plarizan Stephenson, Rafael Julian Phillips, Reed Santos, Tristan Quirante Leffers, and support staff Declan Drake (physiotherapist) and Lalaine Bacus (team manager).
The women’s team, led by captain Rassiel Sales and vice-captain Pearl Opolentisima Kellie, comprised Alana Lee Donaire Grace, Janin Lara Puig, Naomi Kate Palis Stroem, Kayleigh Corpuz Foster, Lauryn Nazareno, Loramhel Mateo, Patricia Mandon Mangahas, Sylvia Tudoc, Takiah-Lani Joy Buchanan, and Vanessa Hachiles Cifuentes, supported by physiotherapist Harry Fardell and team manager Mark Villamora.