Japan boosts Phl judo program

MANILA, Philippines -  The All-Japan Judo Federation and the Embassy of Japan recently donated straw mats worth P1 million to the Philippine Judo Federation, boosting the local federation’s grassroots development program.

PJF president Dave Carter said the donation came in the form of 142 pieces of straw mats with the Japanese Embassy shouldering the freight cost of the materials.

“The mats were manufactured straight from Japan. We will be using this in our grassroots development programs,” said Carter, who also thanked Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez for his support to the sport.

The simple turnover ceremony was held last Wednesday at the judo gym located inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex with Philippine Sports commissioner Charles Maxey and executive director Atty. Carlo Abarquez gracing the event.

Representing the Japanese Embassy was Japan International Cultural Center director Ken Nakamura.

Carter said the donation worth more than P1 million is a big boost to the federation since one mat costs $150.