Team Philippines fell by the wayside against the might of the United States in the sparring events as it surrendered the medal lead to the two-time defending champions after yesterday's action in the 10th World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation Championships at the Ayala Center Cebu Activity Center.The Philippines managed just eight gold medals and three silvers yesterday, which paled in comparison to the onslaught put forth by the USA, which captured 19 golds and 13 silver medals. As of press time, USA finally snatched the lead from the host country with 34 golds, 26 silvers and four bronze medals while the RP was at close second with 33 golds, eight silvers and a bronze medal. Providing the light of hope for Team Philippines was Southwestern University's (SWU) Cesario Perez, who captured his third gold medal in as many events by winning the men's bantamweight class of the double stick event over USA's Michael Ibe. He already captured gold medals in the men's flyweight class of the single stick event and the men's 18-39 non-traditional single stick class in the forms event. WORRIED The 19-year old continues to improve on his standing after debuting with a gold medal in his first World Championships in 2004. However, with the spate of questionable judging which cost two of his teammates medal opportunities last Thursday, he was still wary of the way the bout would be called. “Nagbantay-bantay jud ko sa mga judges kay ila gud gipanangtang ang among mga maayo. Kay kung puro taga-USA pa ang mga judge ato, di sad jud ko muduwa,” said Perez after his win. Acer Rael Jolero also followed suit in the double-stick event as he edged Peter Bornia of the USA, 2-1, for the gold in the men's featherweight class. Team Philippines had 1-2 finishes in three single-stick sparring events. Leonides Cabigo won over compatriot Manigos Secorias for the gold in the men's featherweight class, Calvin Cordera defeated teammate Philip Inot for the gold in the men's super featherweight class and Mariano Monzon outpointed Dave Salles for the prize in the men's middleweight class. On the distaff side, Mary Marillano grabbed the gold in the women's heavyweight category as she outclasses Sarah Charles of the United Kingdom, 2-1, while Louimie Tano won the same way over Janice Kashiwagi of the USA in the bantamweight division. Mary Joy Marullanoi also got a gold in the women's heavyweight class of the double-stick event as she overwhelmed Laura Holmes of the USA, 3-0. Canada remains in third place with seven golds, nine silvers and three bronze medals while Australia is at fifth place with five golds and three silvers. India rounds out the top five with four golds and a silver medal. The awarding ceremonies is scheduled for tonight at the Cebu Grand Convention Center, where the trophies and medals will be distributed. The turnover of the flag to the next host will also be done tonight. Mexico City is the site of the 11th Wekaf Championships in 2010. | 
