2 weeks Ago By SunStar Cebu
A RELENTLESS pursuit of excellence and resilience defines the journey of one Cebuano athlete who has earned a spot on the Philippine Pencak Silat team. From regional mats to the national stage, his story is one of perseverance, unwavering determination, and the power of community support, an inspiring tale of grit that continues to unfold as he trains for international glory. Cyrell Covon Peresores said his journey started way back in 2018 when one of his high school classmates introduced him to Pencak Silat, a full-body fighting form that incorporates strikes, grappling, and throwing, in addition to weaponry.
“I had a background in Arnis, but Pencak Silat was a whole different beast. There were so many techniques to learn; it was truly challenging. But I was hooked, and I kept practicing,” he said.
Peresores represented Cebu in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association in 2019, but then the Covid-19 pandemic happened. He, however, didn’t give up; he joined online tournaments and won gold multiple times. His early success in regional meets was a testament to his dedication and natural talent.
He wasn’t just learning martial arts; he was forging his character, molding himself into the athlete he aspired to be. His coaches, Jasper Movilla and Sensei Ariel Labor were his biggest mentors. Peresores said Movilla taught him techniques and philosophy as a martial artist, while Labor provided him place to train.
Peresores added that among his inspirations are his loved ones and his teammates in Cebu City. He drew strength from his family, his friends, and his unwavering belief in himself; he used every setback as an opportunity to learn, grow, and become stronger. Last year, he won a gold medal in Philippine National Games, and now, he is in Baguio training hard for his upcoming competition in Abu Dhabi this December.
“My expectations are high, especially with our foreign coaches pushing us to our limits. We’ve been training relentlessly, and I’m confident I will bring home the beacon,” he said. Pelosores’ story is an inspiration, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized with unwavering commitment.
He is a shining example of how consistent efforts coupled with a strategic approach to training and competition can lead to remarkable success. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding everyone that even the most ambitious goals can be achieved with dedication, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Kestrel Kate Ferrer / University of the Visayas.
