Petron jins compete in Bangkok World Cup

The Petron national taekwondo team faces another big test in preparation for the Doha Asian Games when it competes in the 2006 World Cup championships on Sept. 14-18 in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to Philippine Taekwondo Association president Robert Aventajado, the Philippines will be among the top 35 taekwondo countries selected by the World Taekwondo Federation to vie for honors in the prestigious championships.

Among these, he says, are Korea, Chinese Taipei, United States, China, France and Spain.

The Philippines is always considered as among the top contenders in the World Cup, says PTA vice president Sung Chon Hong.

Five years ago, the Filipinos bagged one silver and three bronze medals in the same tournament.

Twelve players and three officials make up the RP squad, which is supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Petron and Accel.

These are:

Men — John Paul Lizardo, Tshomlee Go, Manuel Rivero Jr., Alexander Briones, Ernesto Juan Mendoza III and Dax Alberto Morfe.

Women — Mary Antoinette Rivero, Kathleen Eunice Alora, Loraine Lorelei Catalan, Kirstie Elaine Alora, Ma. Criselda Roxas and Richelle Dinolan.

The officials are Stephen Fernandez and Roberto Cruz, coaches; and Dr. Manolo Gabriel, international referee.