IKO Nakamura PH marks its one-year anniversary with over 15 branches, 1000 members
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 17 Jan 2023
MANILA---From small and humble beginnings, the International Karate Organization (IKO) Kyokushin Nakamura Philippines celebrates its 1st Founding Anniversary with more than 15 branches with 1000 active students supporting the full-contact karate system amidst the pandemic.
IKO Nakamura Philippines Branch Chief Sensei Victor Canon reflected on the journey of the karate organization.
“It was such a difficult time for everyone, especially for those who make a living teaching karate as a livelihood during the pandemic. Fortunately, IKO Nakamura Japan replied and appointed me as the Philippines Branch Chief. I received such a wonderful reception and felt the sincerity, great honor, and pride in being part of such a prestigious organization,” IKO Nakamura Philippines Canon said.
The organization was first put forward in the Philippines on January 17, 2021, with guidance from IKO Nakamura Japan Chief Director Sousui Makoto Nakamura, a former colleague of the Sosai Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate.
Notwithstanding the various challenges, IKO Nakamura Philippines successfully hosted tournaments, camp training, national selection and international tournaments, and seminars headed by the headquarters dojo, Top Gym, Dasmarinas, Cavite, in cooperation with all affiliated branches in the country.
“Looking back, I wanted to look for a respectable international Kyokushin organization from Japan that upholds the true essence of Kyokushin from the original concept of the Founder Mas Oyama,” Canon said.
Canon also noted the importance of collaboration and support for one another, trusting the plans and directions of leaders, and resources in building a strong organization.
According to Canon, while a good member and follower’s support is vital, the opportunity to experience leadership and form the capability to lead is likewise valuable. "Most importantly, the sincerity, dedication, hard work, and fear of the Lord is necessary for leaders or aspiring leaders for their organization to succeed.”
Canon said that he looks forward to upgrading the karate standard in the Philippines and helping those achieve their dreams not only in karate but also in education. Further, Canon mentioned that the organization aims to have educated instructors to handle the training of the youth and provide a decent way of earning a living and helping build a better community.
“The celebration of our 1st anniversary is important to see how fast and far we have been in our journey towards our passion in karate and seeing our improvement as we practice daily, learning from the past and not repeat the same mistakes, and finally, being grateful to God for helping us grow as a person with good moral values and as an organization that upholds discipline and life preservation,” Canon ended.-Marlon Bernardino-
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Marlon Bernardino.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Pacquiao Sends US Boxing Scene Buzzing Again
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Tue, 22 Jul 2025Hurting inside
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 22 Jul 2025Shocking Incident at MaxFight 62: Fighter Bites Opponent’s Ear in Live MMA Broadcast, Prompting National Outrage and Scrutiny of Bulgarian MMA Federation
Tue, 22 Jul 2025Immanuwel Aleem Takes on Demond NIcholson in DMV Turf War on Saturday. July 26th at The Hall in Live! Casino and Hotel Maryland
Mon, 21 Jul 2025Barrios lucky to keep title
By Joaquin Henson, Mon, 21 Jul 2025Allan Cantonjos rules Dipolog FIDE Standard chess tilt
By Marlon Bernardino, Mon, 21 Jul 2025PHI GenTri Chess Players to Wave Philippine Flag in Hong Kong
By Marlon Bernardino, Mon, 21 Jul 2025Filipino Pride and the Art of Hero Worship
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT, Mon, 21 Jul 2025Manny Pacquiao vs. Logic
By Mark F. Villanueva, Sun, 20 Jul 2025McTavish a proud Filipino
By Joaquin Henson, Sun, 20 Jul 2025GM Antonio rules Taiwan blitz chess tilt
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 20 Jul 2025History Slips From Pacquiao's Hands as Barrios Fight Ends in Majority Draw
By Dong Secuya, Sun, 20 Jul 2025Fundora Dominates Tszyu: "Towering Inferno" Retains Title in Strategic Masterclass
By Dong Secuya, Sun, 20 Jul 2025PITBULL CRUZ DOMINATES OMAR SALCEDO TO WIN WBC 140 LB INTERIM TITLE
By Dong Secuya, Sun, 20 Jul 2025Figueroa Claims Hard-Fought Decision in Grueling War Against Gonzalez
By Dong Secuya, Sun, 20 Jul 2025