Philippines to Host 3rd JKA International Gasshuku and Karate-Do Championship in Davao City
MARCH 10, 2026 - DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Japan Karate Association Philippines will host the 3rd JKA Philippines International Gasshuku and Karate-Do Championship from August 27 to 30, 2026 in Davao City, bringing together Shotokan karate practitioners, instructors, and competitors from around the world.
The four-day event will feature intensive Gasshuku training sessions, seminars with senior instructors, and international-level kata and kumite competitions, reinforcing the Philippines’ growing role as a regional hub for traditional karate.
The development of JKA karate in the Philippines dates back to 1958 when Japanese instructor Takayuki Mikami arrived in Manila as the first JKA instructor assigned to promote Shotokan karate in the country. His work helped establish the foundation for the art’s growth among Filipino practitioners.
In 1965, Japanese master Kunio Sasaki arrived and later established the JKA Philippine Chapter. Sasaki Shihan would remain in the Philippines for decades, guiding the expansion of the organization and shaping generations of karate practitioners until his passing in 2016
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During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the spread of JKA karate accelerated through the efforts of instructors such as Masanori Takahashi, who helped mentor Filipino practitioners and develop new karate centers, particularly in the Visayas region.
One of the pioneers of JKA karate in the region was Oscar Obsioma, who helped establish and expand JKA training in Cebu and represented the Philippines in international competitions, helping elevate the country’s presence in the global karate community.
Today, JKA Philippines is led by Gilieto Luague, Chairman of JKA Philippines and a certified 5th Dan black belt, licensed instructor, and officiating judge. Luague Shihan began his karate journey in 1969 under Takahashi Shihan and later played a key role in expanding JKA karate internationally, establishing dojos across the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates.
In 2024, the JKA World Federation Philippines Inc. received official recognition from the Japan Karate Association World Federation in Tokyo, confirming the organization’s status as the recognized JKA member body for the Philippines.
Organizers say the upcoming international gathering in Davao City is expected to attract participants from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and other regions, strengthening international cooperation among Shotokan karate practitioners.he principle “The Keeper of Karate’s Highest Tradition,” JKA Philippines continues to promote authentic karate training rooted in discipline, respect, and lifelong study of the martial art.
