TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The 2nd Matagoan Arm Wrestling Tournament, a highlight of the 2025 Matagoan Festival, concluded on Saturday June 22, with intense matchups and the crowning of champions across various categories.
In the 64-kg and Below – Amateur category, Jannard Tallongon emerged as champion, with Jaco Agpawan placing second and Jordan Reyes taking third.
The 65-kg to 79-kg – Amateur division saw Jonathan Balakey clinch the championship. Nathaniel Sarmiento secured second place, and Kirelle Dulagan finished third.
For the 80-kg & Above -Amateur class, Blaize Padilao powered his way to the championship. Adrian Bayya secured second place, followed by Dryk Kanongkong in third.
In the 80-kg & Below – Open Pro category, Abraham Kerchatin was declared champion. Esrael Ekid placed second, and Calvin Santoe finished third.
The 81-kg & Above – Open Pro division saw Esrael Ekid take the championship title. Abraham Kerchatin secured second place, and Calvin Santos came in third.
In the Women’s Division – Amateur, Ayin Kurman was crowned champion. Aneth Abbacan placed second, and Jenica Domingo took third.
Several Super Match showdowns also took place. Esrael Ekid emerged as champion in one Super Match, with Pastor Dulaopa placing second and Abraham Kerchatin third. In another Super Match, Aneth Abbacan defeated Xyriel Pangilinan to claim the championship. Lastly, Kresler Dulagan was crowned champion after besting Bon Bunagan in their Super Match.
The arm wrestling competition underscored the Matagoan Festival’s celebration of strength and local talent.
Cash and tokens were awarded to all winners, from champions to second runners-up, in their respective categories. By Jesse Maguiya
