Pasay: The future of Philippine karate went on "why-not-now" mode on Sunday as the national team saved the best for last in the final day of the Karate One Youth League at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. Blanked in the first three days, the Philippines literally went on a gold rush as the team scored two golds to headline a six-medal haul in the under-14 tournaments.

According to Philippines News Agency, Kathleya Elaine Bustamante was the first to strike gold, defeating Australia's Ana Jovic, 6-2, in the U14 kumite -47 kg final. Bustamante, a 13-year-old from General Santos, expressed her joy, stating, "It's my first time winning an international tournament," as she embraced her coach. "I'm very happy that I did my best to win the gold," she added, still emotional from her victory.

The Philippines also celebrated a 1-3 finish in the same division as Kaylani Vergara secured a bronze medal. Meanwhile, Francis Erl Jud Abundo captured the other gold for the home team by defeating Wan Azlee Wan Zuraimi of Brunei, 7-0, in the U14 kumite male -40 kg final. Abundo, from Sta. Rosa City, described his triumph as an advanced birthday gift, having won gold just a day before turning 13. "Akala ko po magiging close fight siya, pero kinaya (I thought it would be a close fight, but I was able to dominate him)," Abundo remarked, noting his momentum after scoring with an ippon and the subsequent activation of the mercy rule by the referee and judges.

In addition to the gold medals, Dean Montalbo and Alexa Vallesteros each earned silver medals in the U14 kata events. Ashana Sabote added to the medal tally with a bronze in the U14 kumite female -42 kg category. Karate Pilipinas, the national sports association that facilitated the successful staging of the Karate One Youth League, is now planning for the next event scheduled for February.