Yap defends Asia-Oceania Sambo crown as PH bags three golds on home soil

Agnes Yap defended her title in the 2026 Asia-Oceania Sambo Championships, edging Kazakhstan's Zamzagul Faizollanova 1-0 in the women's -80-kilogram combat sambo final. The victory gave the Philippines its second consecutive championship in the division.

The win carried extra meaning because the Philippines hosted the continental meet. "I am so happy because I defended my title. It is more fulfilling since we are the host country, and it feels good to give back to the country," Yap said.

"I am trying not to be overconfident. What I think is that the match should be safe, and I'll have no regrets the moment I step outside of the mat," she added.

The final was tight. Both fighters secured pins before technical officials awarded Yap the narrow 1-0 decision.

Yap said she remains focused on improvement. "Definitely, I should train more and improve, and work more on my lapses. I really want, and I hopefully want to give more medals to the country."

"This win is for Philippine Sambo because I wouldn't be here without them, and I am really grateful for their trust."

The Philippines also took gold through Jomary Torres in the women's 50kg combat sambo and Aumagel Princess Cortez in the women's 59kg division. Torres, ranked No. 7 in the world, defeated Kazakhstan's Zhadyra Paiyz. Cortez beat Mervet Berdihanakova.

The three golds highlighted the host nation's strength in the sport.