Inspired by a bamboo

by: Eduardo B. Velasco Jr.

An alumnus of Olongapo City National High School under the

Special Program in Sports, Mr. Ferdie Labandia’s humble beginnings are
indeed something worth remembering.
As a typical mischievous student, Ferdie was sent home one day
after his parents knew that he got addicted to computer games. His mother
decided not to send him to school for a year, so he could learn his lessons.
In due course, Ferdie turned over a new leaf.
His love for Arnis did not happen in a glance. He was a baseball
player at first who’s impulsive and wayward. When he was in third year,
he was discovered by his head coach and trainer, Ms. Arlene Reyes and
convinced him to join the fold. Ms. Reyes was so persistent that she had to win over the “yes” of
Ferdie’s baseball coach. In the long run, Ferdie finally crossed the threshold.
Ferdie’s journey in Arnis was not as easy as pie. He had to face numerous letdowns that
made him a better Arnis player. Ferdie’s time emanated when he competed in the Central Luzon
Regional Athletic Association Meet (CLRAA MEET) in February 2010 and bagged a gold medal
for Olongapo City. In 2011, Ferdie also won in the CLRAA Meet that gave him another chance to
compete in Palarong Pambansa 2011 representing Region III.
After graduating from Olongapo City National High School (SPS), Ferdie continued his
fiery passion in Arnis at Rizal Technological University from 2011 to 2015. As a varsity, Ferdie
proved once again that he could be a pride of his institution. He’s a gold medalist in State
Colleges and Universities Athletic Association ( SCUAA) in 2011, 60-65 kg weight category.
Meanwhile, he bagged a gold medal in Philippine National Games held in May 2012 and 2013.
He is also a gold medalist in Anyo Sychronized during the
SCUAA 2013. Another gold medal ascended under 60-65 kg
weight category in SCUAA 2014.
His passion to the sport didn’t stop on a dime when he
graduated at Rizal Technological University. After passing the
Licensure Examination for Teachers, he continued his urge to
promulgate the sport to his students. He served as a trainer and a
coach in various athletic meets and proved that he is really
someone to beat.
Ferdie’s sacrifices and determination have all been paid
off. He has already produced copious student-athletes who have brought pride to Olongapo City.
Some of his mentees include, Emidgio Dacky Dacayana, gold medalist in CLRAA 2014, Janrey
Dillar, gold medalist for 3 consecutive years in CLRAA 2015-2018 and a Palarong Pambansa
qualifier, and Regine Sobreo, Palarong Pambansa 2012 silver medalist.
 “ Nagturo ako para palaganapin pa ang Arnis at maibahagi ko ang natutunan ko para sa
Olongapo City. Isa sa pambihirang katangian ang dapat matutunan ng mga atleta. Ito ay bumalik
sa pinanggalingan at mamahagi ng kaalaman”, Labandia said.
Mr. Ferdie Labandia is now currently teaching at Gordon Heights National High School
and continues to inspire, mold, and create high-caliber student-athletes who will eventually
follow his footsteps.