Team Philippines is gearing up as a strong contender for the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, and the 2026 ICF World Dragon Boat Championships in Regina, Canada.

And to complement the training of its athletes, the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragonboat Federation (PCKDF) set in motion a new national coaching initiative to build on recent international success.

The PCKDF recently launched a Level 1 national dragon boat coaching seminar, designed to enhance coaching standards across the country. The series began in Manila and is set to expand to Puerto Princesa, Cebu and Davao in the coming months.

“It’s the start of a national movement. We are laying the foundation for a new era of Filipino coaching, one that is rooted in science, inspired by purpose and dedicated to developing athletes as well-rounded individuals,” said PCKDF president Leonora Escollante.

National head coach Duchess Francine Co said coaching has been key to the Philippines’ recent performance on the world stage. Filipino paddlers secured 11 gold, 20 silver and eight bronze medals at the world championships in Puerto Princesa City, surpassing their previous record of six golds at the 2018 championships in Gainesville, United States.

“This seminar marks a turning point in [PCKDF]’s mission to transform coaching into a science-backed profession,” Co said.

Moderated by PCKDF’s Rona Joy Bulaong, the three-day seminar featured discussions on biomechanics, injury prevention, skill optimization, sports nutrition and mental health in coaching.