07/05/2026
PANAAN GAMES 2026: TAWI-TAWI HISTORICAL ARCHERY FESTIVAL - Strengthening ASEAN Unity Through Heritage Sport and Cultural Diplomacy
Bongao, Tawi-Tawi | 3 May 2026 — The PANAAN Games 2026: Tawi-Tawi Historical Archery Festival concluded successfully in Bongao, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of Historical Archery as a unifying heritage sport within the ASEAN region. The event brought together international archers, cultural custodians, and sports administrators from Tawi-Tawi , Manila , Malaysia, and the United Kingdom in a shared celebration of tradition, identity, and cross-cultural friendship.
Organised by the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi through the Provincial Sports and Development Office under the leadership of Hon. Zayeed Aimeer M. Matba, in collaboration with Tawi-Tawi Archers and international partners, the festival reflected a growing regional commitment to strengthening ASEAN solidarity through traditional sport. The initiative, an effort by archers from Tanah Bangsawan and HDH Archery Malaysia, further reinforced the shared mission of developing Historical Archery as a structured and culturally grounded discipline across ASEAN.
Central to the philosophy of the event is the KAPA initiative (Keluarga Angkat Pemanah ASEAN), a collaborative framework championed by Malaysia and the Philippines to foster “family-based” ties among ASEAN archers. This initiative continues to strengthen athlete development pathways, cultural exchange, and long-term regional cooperation, positioning Historical Archery not only as a competitive discipline but also as a living expression of ASEAN unity. Both Malaysia and the Philippines reaffirmed their strong commitment to expanding KAPA as a foundational pillar of regional sports diplomacy.
Competition Day 2 featured long-distance Historical Archery disciplines ranging from 40 metres to 140 metres, where athletes demonstrated exceptional levels of technical precision, endurance, discipline, and sportsmanship. Beyond competition results, the festival served as a cultural platform celebrating the warrior heritage of the region, while reinforcing shared values that connect ASEAN communities through sport and tradition.
The championship results highlighted outstanding performances across all divisions. Robert Martinez was crowned Men’s Champion, while Norlaila Ramli (Malaysia) secured the Women’s Champion title. Mujibar Martinez was named Scout Champion, and Anisya Fatehah Ahmad Faizan (Malaysia) claimed the Junior Champion title.
In the Grand Championship standings, Robert Martinez secured 1st place, followed by Mulpikal Abilul in 2nd place, and Alquabid Hassan in 3rd place, reflecting a highly competitive field and the rising standard of ASEAN Historical Archery athletes.
Special awards were also presented to recognise excellence beyond scoring performance. These included the Speed Record Award presented to Nidzar, Robert Martinez, and Shazar; the Sharpshooter Award awarded to Robert Martinez; the Attire Award (by public vote) awarded to Drew Chumutan; and the MTB Champion title awarded to Mohd Ayub bin Kamidi (Malaysia).
These recognitions underscored the festival’s holistic appreciation of athletic skill, cultural expression, and versatility in historical sport.
In a key regional development announcement, HDH Archery Malaysia and HDH – International Archery Association confirmed that the Philippines has been allocated three official quota places for the ASEAN Historical Archery Championships, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 16 to 21 November 2026. This allocation reflects the continued commitment to equitable ASEAN representation and structured competitive development among member nations.
The three qualified athletes representing the Philippines will be Robert Martinez, Mulpikal Abilul, and Alquabid Hassan. These athletes will form part of the official Philippine contingent competing at the ASEAN level, further strengthening the country’s presence in the regional Historical Archery arena.
Further strengthening ASEAN leadership in the sport, Hikmatyar Idjilani has been formally recognised as the ASEAN Ambassador for Historical Archery from the Philippines. This appointment underscores the continued development of structured leadership, cultural representation, and international engagement within the ASEAN Historical Archery movement.
HDH Archery Malaysia and HDH – International Archery Association extend their sincere appreciation to all key stakeholders whose support ensured the successful delivery of the event, including His Excellency Hon. Governor Yshmael “Mang” I. Sali of the Province of Tawi-Tawi, Her Excellency First Lady Hja. Jumda Sali, Hon. Vice Governor Al-syed A. Sali, Hon. Mayor Jasper Que, Hon. Vice Mayor Jimuel Que, and Principal Nur Tidal.
The PANAAN Games 2026 stands as a strong testament to the role of Historical Archery in advancing ASEAN unity through heritage sport. By strengthening cultural identity while building structured regional cooperation, the event continues to position archery as a powerful bridge between nations, communities, and generations across Southeast Asia.
“The PANAAN Games 2026 stands as a meaningful expression of unity through heritage sport. Historical Archery continues to serve as a bridge between cultures, preserving tradition while strengthening friendship among communities across ASEAN and beyond,” said Anuar Matsaat, Vice President of HDH-IAA.
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Persatuan Memanah Tradisional Kuala Lumpur - PMTKL
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