Affiliated academy: Open Grounds Jiu-Jitsu Foundation, BJJ Philippines
Where is the gym located?
Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines
How many people train there?
15-25
Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
Yes, an average of 1 to 2 new members every month.
What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
White belt to purple belt.
When did the gym open?
January 2023
Some facts about you:
Name: Randy B. Gubguban
Age: 43
Belt: 4-stripe white
Profession: Sales Engineer
Years in BJJ: 3 years
Other martial arts: Filipino Martial Arts, Boxing
Currently living in: Angeles City, Philippines
Originally from: Ilagan, Isabela, Philippines
Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
It’s a foundation formed with many friends in the BJJ community, having the goal of spreading and sharing the art for free. Especially for kids and women who are not financially able, but are committed and willing to learn.
Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
The coaches are from different teams or affiliations, so we’ve known each other for quite a long time. The students are mainly local young people.
Why do they train?
To learn together and share the art for many.
What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and for BJJ Philippines specifically?
BJJ is not well known in our community – that’s why we formed the foundation to reach as many people as we can.
How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
As long as people have the opportunity to try it, BJJ will surely grow here.
What’s the best thing about your gym?
It’s free!
What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
The place, the food, and the people.
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