Mapua’s Fiel Reyes strikes gold in World Taekwondo Expo

MANILA, Philippines — Making her first appearance on the international stage, Filipina taekwondo jin Fiel Reyes delivered an unforgettable performance by capturing one gold and one silver medal at the 19th World Taekwondo Cultural Expo held from July 16-21 in Muju, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea.

The 21-year-old Mapua University-Makati student proved she belonged among the world's best, winning the gold medal in the Poomsae event before adding a silver medal in Sparring (Kyorugi) in a remarkable debut that showcased both her technical excellence and competitive spirit.

For Reyes, competing abroad for the first time became more than just an international exposure — it was a breakthrough performance that highlighted her readiness to excel against world-class opponents.

Already an accomplished poomsae athlete, Reyes stepped outside her comfort zone by entering the sparring competition, where she exceeded expectations with a silver-medal finish. Her willingness to embrace a new challenge reflected her discipline, perseverance, and determination to continuously improve.

The World Taekwondo Culture Expo is regarded as South Korea's premier international taekwondo festival, attracting more than 4,000 athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts from around the globe. The annual event features competitions in poomsae and kyorugi while promoting Korean culture, tourism, and the core values of taekwondo.

Beyond the competition, participants experienced cultural performances, industry exhibitions, educational seminars, demonstrations by the Korean National Taekwondo Demonstration Team, and cultural tours, making the expo a celebration of both sport and Korean heritage.

Now in its 19th edition, the World Taekwondo Cultural Expo has become one of the world's premier gatherings for taekwondo practitioners, providing athletes with an opportunity to compete, exchange knowledge, and experience the birthplace of the martial art.

"Congratulations, Fiel! You have made your family and the Philippines proud. Mabuhay ka, Fiel! May your journey continue to inspire young athletes to dream bigger, work harder, and never be afraid to take on new challenges," said World Olympics Taekwondo Foundation Philippines Chairman Isagani Domingo and Vice Chairperson Elisabella Domingo. (Contributed story)