UC president gives financial support to RP arnis team

University of Cebu president Atty. Agusto Go is extending financial support to University of Cebu arnisadors who will be joining the 9th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Championships in Orlando, Florida on July 2-8.

Atty. Go is appropriating P200,000 for eight stick fighters and a coach from UC who made it to the RP Team.

The eight athletes are Ariel Great, Jerry Tañajora, Emelio Cuevas, John Kenneth Ferraren, Mary Jane Rodina, Francis Dereso, April Max Caballes, Jun Dave Caballes and coach Maximo Caballes.

UC athletic director Bernard Ricablanca is also accompanying the Webmasters.

Ricablanca said it was the school administration, which also shouldered their expenses for their visa application as well as their travel expenses in going to Manila for the interview at the US Embassy.

The gesture made by UC was a welcome development considering that the RP-bound arnisters lack funds for their trip abroad.

In fact, local officials of the World Eskrima Arnis Federation (WEKAF) earlier called on the Cebuanos for financial support after some of the pledges did not come.

"We are really very thankful that our school gave us the needed financial assistance. This will further motivate our athletes to perform their best and bring home the gold," Ricablanca said. - Caecent O. No-ot