Custodio, Roxas Deliver Gold as PH Shines in SEA Games Jiu-Jitsu

The Philippines celebrated a strong showing at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games as world-class athletes Kimberly Custodio and Dean Roxas dominated their divisions in jiu-jitsu ne-waza, adding two gold medals to the country’s growing tally. The matches were held at the Ronnaphakat Building inside the Navaminda Kasatiryahiraj Air Force Academy.

Custodio, a three-time world champion, lived up to her reputation after defeating Thailand’s Sugun Nutchaya in a tight women’s 48kg final. Both fighters traded advantages throughout the match, but Custodio broke the deadlock in the final 30 seconds with a decisive top control, earning three crucial points. The victory secured her first-ever SEA Games gold in her debut appearance.

In the men’s 85kg division, Roxas displayed complete dominance by forcing a quick submission against Singapore’s Aacus Hou Yu Ee. His explosive win delivered the Philippines’ fourth gold medal in the Games and marked a major comeback for the two-time SEA Games champion.

“I went through a lot this year. I got injured in Japan almost three weeks ago, so I thought I wasn’t going to compete,” Roxas said. “I’m grateful to be here, grateful to soak in the moment, represent the country, and get another gold for the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, Yman Baluyo settled for silver in the men’s 69kg final after being submitted by Vietnam’s Dang Dinh Tung.

Earlier in the day, Kaila Napolis, Marc Lim, and Vito Luzuriaga contributed to the medal haul with three bronze finishes, solidifying the Philippines’ strong campaign in the sport.

With the continued success of the national jiu-jitsu team, hopes remain high for more podium finishes as the SEA Games action intensifies.

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