Philippines' next sports hero might be found in Muay Thai

It is only a matter of time before the Philippines would produce its next Manny Pacquiao or Eduard Folayang in the world of Muay Thai, Billy Alumno, head coach of the Philippine Muay Thai national team, said.

While Alumno concedes that Muay Thai did not get the same traction as much as boxing or mixed martial arts in the Philippines back in the day, grassroots program and local shows are now starting to pave the way for future combat superstars.

"What we do now is we focus on grassroots development program in Muay Thai. We roam the country to introduce the sport," said Alumno.

"Now we have competitions like Batang Pinoy where 15 years old and below can compete. We also have a national program na to spread the sport of Muay Thai," he said.

According to Alumno, Filipinos can be globally competitive in Muay Thai or kickboxing if given the right mentorship and opportunity.

"I think our chances of producing a world class talent now is better because of the national team who gets exposed in the amateur circuit," he shared.

"When they turn pro their skill set won't be far from their opponents. We have the potential to make it up the professional ladder in Muay Thai," he added.

"We are trying really hard to compete overseas so our athletes would gain experience and also promote the sport here in the Philippines," Alumno said.

Grooming a kid to get in the world of contact sports has never been the first career choice of a traditional Filipino house. Alumno however said Muay Thai in the Philippines has grown so much over the years that it has now become a viable career path.

"This can be a career if a person is passionate about martial arts," vowed Alumno.

"Team Lakay fighters are college graduates, but they made a career out of MMA. Same thing with Muay Thai because there's big money here. It is feasible," he added. —KG, GMA News