Jhoelzelle Mhae Sagayo: Wushu’s Batang Pinoy 2025 Golden Girl
Not many athletes can claim mastery in more than one combat sport while even fewer can juggle two martial art disciplines and still come out on top.
But for 16-year-old Jhoezelle Mhae Sagayo, winning a gold medal was never out of reach.
Originally from the province of La Union, she now trains and studies in Baguio, the same city she proudly represented in the 2024 Batang Pinoy competitions.
While some athletes focused on one sport, Jhoezelle devoted herself to two: grappling and Wushu.
While grappling was her first sport, she became drawn to the latter after witnessing a Wushu competition.
Even though Jhoezelle’s first salvo at a Wushu competition only landed her a silver, it sparked a deeper drive within her as she began training consistently while continuing with her original sport, learning to manage both over time.
Although it wasn’t easy, the payoff was well worth it, she shared.Her preparation for Batang Pinoy 2024 was just as hectic as any student-athlete’s, where she balanced academics and daily training, which at times taking its toll, but she pushed through with determination.
She said that among the biggest challenges for her was cutting weight which remained the most difficult part of her Wushu training and competition journey.
Still, competing and representing the Summer Capital brought Jhoezelle a deep sense of fulfillment since for her, the highlight wasn’t just winning the gold medal, it was also the shared effort with her teammates.
What stood out the most was the teamwork and camaraderie, which made the whole experience more meaningful, she revealed.When her name was announced as the Wushu gold medalist, she admitted that it felt surreal.
After everything she went through—mentally and physically—standing on top of the podium was a moment she would never forget.Jhoezelle owes her success to a strong support system as her mother, an OFW who was preparing for her flight overseas, still prioritized her daughter’s needs leading up to the competition.
Her coaches also played a huge role, treating Jhoezelle and her teammates like family and guiding them every step of the way.
To younger athletes, her message is simple: keep showing up and make time for the things you’re passionate about. To everyone who supported her throughout the journey, she extends her deepest thanks.
Though Jhoezelle can no longer join future Batang Pinoy events due to age limits, she remains hopeful about continuing in the sport she has.
Her sights are now set on the Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic League (BBEAL) and national-level competitions, carrying with her the same determination that once turned passion into gold. – Heidi Alonzo – PIO Baguio intern / Gaby Keith
