Marcos vows wider sports access as PH fencers bring home 46 medals

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 14, 2026

Photo courtesy: Presidential Communication Office

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has pledged continued government support for Filipino athletes and broader access to sports programs after welcoming the Philippine fencing team to Malacañan following its 46-medal haul in Malaysia.

During the Philippine Fencing Association’s courtesy call at Kalayaan Hall on October 13, Marcos said the government wants more young Filipinos to have opportunities to train in fencing and other sports, not only for competition but also for personal development. 

“We need to have a more extensive program for people to participate in sports like fencing, any sport that they might be interested in,” Marcos said.

The President also recalled that he and his sister, Irene Marcos-Araneta, took fencing lessons when they were younger. He said his sister pursued the sport more seriously and became particularly skilled. 

Marcos said fencing, while not traditionally considered one of the Philippines’ mainstream sports, has been gaining ground as Filipino athletes post stronger results in regional competition. He also highlighted the role of sports in teaching discipline, camaraderie, resilience and teamwork. 

The Palace visit recognized the delegation’s performance at the 2026 Southeast Asian Fencing Federation Minime, Cadet and Junior Championships in Kuala Lumpur, where the Philippines collected 46 medals – eight gold, 12 silver and 26 bronze.  

That total covers the broader Minime, Cadet and Junior competition. Separate reporting on the junior and cadet divisions alone earlier recorded a 25-medal haul for the Philippines, including five golds, seven silvers and 13 bronzes. 

Marcos also thanked parents, coaches and support teams for the sacrifices involved in developing young athletes and encouraged the fencers to continue training for higher-level international competitions. 

During the gathering, the PFA presented Marcos with a fencing saber and protective headgear. The President also demonstrated how to handle the saber as he recalled his own experience with the sport.