Warrior Classic 2026: The Global Rise of Bodybuilding in the Philippines

Warrior Classic 2026 wasn't just another bodybuilding competition. It was a statement that bodybuilding in the Philippines continues to move in the right direction. From the quality of the venue and production to the professionalism behind the scenes, this year's event demonstrated how a well-run show can create an exceptional experience for athletes, coaches, sponsors, and spectators alike.

Perhaps the biggest milestone of this year's Warrior Classic was hosting its first-ever Men's Physique Olympia Pro Qualifier. This was a significant achievement, bringing elite IFBB Pro League Men's Physique competitors to the Philippines and allowing local athletes and fans to witness firsthand the level of conditioning, presentation, and professionalism required to compete on the international stage.

The Pro Qualifier also showcased the continued rise of Filipino talent on the world stage. Representing the Philippines were IFBB Pro athletes Karym Saripada (@karym_saripada) and Ernie Maranan (@ifbbpro_aries), both of whom proudly stood alongside an impressive international lineup. Saripada delivered an outstanding performance, earning a hard-fought second-place finish against a highly competitive international field and narrowly missing Olympia qualification. His performance served as yet another reminder that Filipino athletes are capable of competing with the very best in the world.

For aspiring competitors and bodybuilding fans alike, the Olympia Pro Qualifier offered far more than an opportunity to watch elite athletes compete. It provided a glimpse into the level of excellence required to succeed internationally while reinforcing the belief that Filipino competitors belong on bodybuilding's biggest stages. The performances of Saripada and Maranan demonstrated that Filipino athletes are no longer simply participating on the international stage—they are proving they can stand among the world's best.

Hosting an Olympia Pro Qualifier represents another major step in the evolution of Warrior Classic and highlights the growing international recognition of Philippine bodybuilding.

Those who attended the very first Warrior Classic will remember that the competition started inside a shopping mall with approximately 40 to 50 competitors. Fast forward to 2026, and the event featured approximately 158 athletes competing across Bikini, Fit Model, Figure, Classic Physique, Men's Physique, and Open Bodybuilding divisions. That kind of growth doesn't happen by accident. It reflects the increasing popularity of bodybuilding in the Philippines, the dedication of its athletes and coaches, and the confidence competitors have in Warrior Classic as one of the country's premier bodybuilding events.

One of the standout features of this year's competition was the venue itself. OB Montessori School proved to be an outstanding choice. The auditorium created an atmosphere that showcased the athletes exactly as bodybuilding should be presented. The stage was large, clean, and professionally lit, while the audience seating area remained dark enough to place all of the attention on the competitors under the lights. From virtually every seat in the auditorium, spectators enjoyed an unobstructed view of the stage, creating a far better viewing experience than many venues commonly used for bodybuilding competitions.

Lighting is often overlooked by spectators but is one of the most important elements of any bodybuilding event. Great lighting allows judges to accurately assess conditioning, symmetry, muscularity, and presentation while giving athletes the opportunity to display the physiques they spent months, and often years, building. Warrior Classic got this right. Every division benefited from lighting that highlighted detail, separation, and stage presence, allowing competitors to present themselves at their absolute best.

Comfort was another area where Warrior Classic excelled. Unlike many competitions where athletes and spectators battle heat and humidity throughout the day, every major area of the venue was fully air-conditioned. The auditorium remained comfortable from start to finish, while the athlete preparation areas also benefited from climate control. Although competitors still worked hard backstage to maintain their pump before stepping on stage, the comfortable environment made what is normally a stressful day significantly more manageable.

Backstage organization was equally impressive. Athletes had access to a dedicated glazing and pump-up room that provided ample space to prepare before competing. A separate holding room allowed competitors to relax, eat, hydrate, and mentally prepare before being called. Volunteers consistently communicated with athletes, ensuring everyone knew when their class was approaching. That level of organization minimized unnecessary stress and helped maintain a smooth flow throughout the day.

Like any event, there are always opportunities for improvement, and Warrior Classic is no exception. Fortunately, the suggestions are relatively minor and easily addressed. The athlete holding room still contained various school furniture and equipment, including shelves, couches, books, musical instruments, and other classroom items. Removing these before the event would significantly increase the available space, allowing athletes and teams to organize their bags, meals, tanning supplies, and equipment much more comfortably.

Another suggestion would be relocating the tanning and makeup stations to the same floor as the athlete holding area. While this certainly wasn't a major issue, having competitors travel between floors while waiting for elevators created unnecessary movement throughout the day. Consolidating all athlete services onto a single floor would further streamline the competitor experience and make an already well-organized event even more efficient.

One of Warrior Classic's greatest strengths continues to be its organization. Produced once again by Red Panda Production, the event ran with impressive professionalism. Although registration experienced a slight delay early in the morning while competitor numbers and final registrations were being finalized, the production team recovered quickly. Once the competition began, the schedule remained remarkably consistent throughout the remainder of the day. Events of this size inevitably encounter minor challenges, but the ability to adapt and recover efficiently is what separates experienced organizers from inexperienced ones.

The volunteer staff also deserves recognition. Throughout the day, competitors were regularly informed when their classes were approaching, giving them sufficient time to begin pumping up and preparing for the stage. Rather than creating confusion or unnecessary rushing, athletes were able to remain relaxed and focus entirely on presenting their best physiques when it mattered most.

The judging continued to reflect the professionalism athletes have come to expect from IFBB Pro League and NPC competitions. Placings appeared consistent throughout the various divisions, and judges remained approachable when athletes requested feedback after competing. That willingness to educate competitors is invaluable for athletes looking to improve, refine their presentation, and return even better at future competitions.

Another exciting addition to Warrior Classic 2026 was the presence of The Men's Physique Show, which provided extensive live coverage throughout the event, particularly during the historic Men's Physique Olympia Pro Qualifier. Live commentary, athlete interviews, behind-the-scenes coverage, and regular social media updates allowed fans who couldn't attend to experience the excitement virtually while further expanding the event's international reach.

Special recognition also goes to The Men's Physique Show host Alim Bolton (@alimbolton), whose professionalism, energy, and passion brought another level of excitement to the competition. Beyond his hosting duties, Alim remained approachable throughout the event, taking time to speak with athletes, pose for photos with fans, and engage with many of the people who regularly follow The Men's Physique Show. His presence added genuine value to Warrior Classic and reinforced the event's growing international reputation.

Another group deserving recognition was the Kolor Tanning Team, whose professionalism and consistency continue to set the standard for contest tanning in the Philippines. Their experienced staff ensured athletes were stage-ready throughout the competition, while the quality of their tanning products provided the rich, even finish necessary to showcase muscularity and conditioning under the bright stage lights. Quality tanning is an essential part of bodybuilding presentation, and Kolor once again delivered outstanding service to competitors across every division.

One of the biggest stories of the weekend belonged to Team Ninong, which delivered one of the strongest performances of any team in attendance. The team accumulated numerous class victories throughout the competition, demonstrating the depth, consistency, and quality of its athletes across multiple divisions.

Leading the charge was Jayson De Villa Evangelista (@jayson_physique13), who captured the Men's Physique Overall Championship with an outstanding display of symmetry, conditioning, stage presence, and confidence. Equally impressive was Amy Berezowski (@deadaimamy), who claimed the Women's Figure Overall Championship after presenting one of the most complete physiques of the entire event. Their victories represented not only remarkable individual achievements but also reflected the consistency and effectiveness of Team Ninong's coaching system, which continues to produce athletes capable of competing at the highest level.

Equally impressive was Team Ninong's commitment to developing female athletes. With competitors represented in Figure, Bikini, and Fit Model, the team showcased one of the strongest and most well-rounded female lineups at the event. More importantly, these weren't simply athletes filling divisions. They were competitors consistently contending for class victories and overall titles.

At a time when women's bodybuilding continues to gain momentum in the Philippines, seeing a team invest so heavily in the development of female competitors is both encouraging and refreshing. By placing the same emphasis on coaching and developing women as they do their male athletes, Team Ninong is helping elevate the standard of women's bodybuilding while inspiring more competitors to step onto the stage.

The successful introduction of the Men's Physique Olympia Pro Qualifier marked a defining moment for Philippine bodybuilding. It gave local athletes the rare opportunity to compete alongside and learn from world-class professionals without leaving the country while giving fans the chance to witness international-caliber competition on home soil. Combined with outstanding production, exceptional venue selection, professional organization, and a genuine commitment to the athlete experience, Warrior Classic has demonstrated that Philippine bodybuilding is no longer simply keeping pace with the rest of the world. It is steadily earning its place among it.

If Warrior Classic continues building on this momentum while refining the small details that further enhance the athlete experience, there is little doubt it will continue attracting the country's best competitors, elite international professionals, and growing audiences for years to come.

Warrior Classic 2026 was far more than another successful bodybuilding show. It was a celebration of how far Philippine bodybuilding has come and a glimpse of where it is headed. From its humble beginnings inside a shopping mall to hosting an Olympia Pro Qualifier on a professionally produced stage, Warrior Classic has become a symbol of the sport's remarkable progress. If this year's event is any indication, the future of bodybuilding in the Philippines has never looked brighter. The next generation of Filipino champions won't simply dream of competing on the world's biggest stages. For many of them, that journey will begin at Warrior Classic.

And without much ado, here is the Winner's List...

WARRIORS CLASSIC -- NATURAL, OPEN REGIONAL AND PRO SHOW

Sunday, July 5, 2026

OB Montessori Center

San Juan, Greenhills

Produced by Red Panda Productions

2026 NPC Worldwide Philippines Natural Regional

MEN'S BODYBUILDING

Lightweight

1. Judyrick Urdaneta

   
   

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- NOVICE

1. Joseph Costan

2. Jordan Zebastian Santos

3. EJ Del Rosario

4. Ajay Kumar Doll

5. Janrey Mercado

6. Carlo Panizal

   
   

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Matt Condez

2. Joey Rivera

3. Taka Papilio

4. Roland Jason Canales

5. Khurt Indon

6. EJ Del Rosario

7. Ajay Kumar Doll

8. Stephen Dale Caringal

9. Janrey Mercado

10. Alonzo Chua

11. John Michael Ruiz

    
    

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- CLASS A

1. John De Castro

2. Ortis Guinyawan Tindaan

3. Judyrick Urdaneta

4. Kim Dwight Cruz

5. Roland Jason Canales

6. Ajay Kumar Doll

   
   

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- JUNIOR

1. Martin Laurence Pereyra

2. Jeynald Mercado

3. Khurt Indon

4. Jercy Cabana

5. Albriecht Capulong

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- NOVICE

1. Alonzo Chua

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Alonzo Chua

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- CLASS A

1. Ortis Guinwayan Tindaan

2. Alvin Angelo Reynoso

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- JUNIOR

1. Joseph Alcantra

2. John Clyde Moises

   
   

FIT MODEL -- OPEN

1. Juen Heart De Leon

2. Jonalyn Jocson

   
   

FIT MODEL -- NOVICE

1. Jonalyn Jocson

   
   

FIT MODEL -- TRUE NOVICE O

1. Juen Heart De Leon

2. Jonalyn Jocson

3. Elizabeth Capili

   
   

FIT MODEL -- MASTERS 35+

1. Jonalyn Jocson

BIKINI -- NOVICE

1. Kathleen Sales

2. Marie Stella Louise Perreras

   
   

BIKINI -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Marie Stella Louise Perreras

   
   

BIKINI -- CLASS A

1. Madelene Barcial

2. Gabriella Diano

3. Marie Stella Louise Perreras

   
   

BIKINI -- JUNIOR

1. Gabriella Diano

   
   

WOMEN'S WELLNESS

Open

1. Christine Yvette Sinaguinan

2026 NPC Worldwide Philippines Open Regional

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- OVERALL WINNER

Jimboy Mende

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- HEAVYWEIGHT

1. Jimboy Mende

   
   

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT

1. Ronald Kevin Rodriguez

   
   

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- NOVICE

1. Robbie Tanguanan

2. Hai Nguyen

3. Thomas Jay Rufino

   
   

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Thomas Jay Rufino

2. Wilburt Taculog II

3. Alcuin Gallega

4. Loewen Rey Lorenzo

   
   

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- BANTAMWEIGHT

1. Nelson Boron

2. Dave Issachar Revesta

3. Alcuin Gallega

   
   

MEN'S BODYBUILDING -- MASTERS 35+

1. Patrick Tan

   
   

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- OVERALL WINNER

Jayson Evangelista

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- NOVICE

1. Albert Ortinez

2. Justin Ibao

3. Farouq Hamzah

4. Daryl Floyd Makinano

5. Christopher Manalo

6. Maynard David

7. Kit Sarsuelo

8. Joe Ozbot

9. Carl Lagado

10. Reiji Tajima

11. Peter Albert Caimbon

12. Venson Mitra

    
    

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Walter John Camarista

2. Justin Ibao

3. Jan Windel Barlis

4. Daryl Floyd Makinano

5. Ghilano Garcia

6. Kit Sarsuelo

7. Pablo Tuarez

8. Joe Ozbot

9. Cobe Bryan Evangelista

10. Rex Vincent Talledo

11. Michael Haries Ibea

12. Carl Lagado

13. Reiji Tajima

14. Juan Gabriel Nava

15. Gaspar Medino

16. Jan Joseph Sta. Barbara

17. John Anthony Orale

    
    

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- MASTERS 35+

1. Reiner Sulaiman

2. Jordan Delmendo

3. Miguel Divina

4. Joe Ozbot

5. Albert Comahig

6. Peter Albert Caimbon

7. Noel Naguiat

8. Jan Joseph Sta. Barbara

   
   

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- CLASS A

1. Jayson Evangelista

2. Walter John Camarista

3. Albert Ortinez

4. Fil Jonh Fontanilla

5. Lance Ace Decocares

6. Justin Ibao

7. Farouq Hamzah

8. Jordan Delmendo

9. Jan Windel Barlis

10. Daryl Floyd Makinano

11. Miguel Divina

12. Kit Sarsuelo

13. John Anthony Valentin

14. Albert Comahig

    
    

MEN'S PHYSIQUE -- CLASS B

1. Jayson Gonzaga

2. Ngin Yong Hao Jerome

3. Reiner Sulaiman

4. Valentino Lacson

5. Long Viet Quoc Ho

6. Kitsada Kaewaran

7. Venson Mitra

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- NOVICE

1. Jordan Delmendo

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Jeffrey Palaganas

2. Rex Vincent Talledo

3. Dave Issachar Revesta

4. Thomas Jay Rufino

5. Joe Taballa

6. Jayson Amoy

   
   

MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE -- CLASS A

1. Jeffrey Palaganas

2. John Paul Tiongson

3. Robbie Tanguanan

4. Joshua Tamayo

   
   

FIT MODEL -- OPEN

1. Nikka Gumbo

2. Amazgrace Caramba

   
   

FIT MODEL -- NOVICE

1. Nikka Gumbo

2. Bernadette Loricas

3. Amazgrace Caramba

   
   

FIT MODEL -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Nikka Gumbo

2. Amazgrace Caramba

   
   

FIT MODEL -- MASTERS 35+

1. Bernadette Loricas

   
   

BIKINI -- NOVICE

1. Erl Ondevilla

   
   

BIKINI -- TRUE NOVICE

1. Clarysse Umlas

2. Mary Ann Gorre

   
   

BIKINI -- MASTERS 35+

1. Serena Grace Martin

2. Erl Ondevilla

   
   

BIKINI -- CLASS A

1. Serena Grace Martin

2. Madelene Barcial

3. Gillete Montano

4. Erl Ondevilla

WOMEN'S FIGURE -- OVERALL WINNER

Amy Berezowski

FIGURE -- OPEN

1. Amy Berezowski

2. Gillete Montano

3. Mary Grace Manahan

   
   

FIGURE -- NOVICE

1. Sylvia Malig-ing

   
   

FIGURE -- MASTERS 35+

1. Amy Berezowski

2026 IFBB Philippines Pro

MEN'S PHYSIQUE OPEN

1. Talha Kilic

2. Karym Nathan Sarpada

3. Muhammad Rifqi

4. Michael Van Niekerk

5. Hoang Dang

6. Tuan Anh Tran

7. Anh Ben

8. Ernie Maranan