Okada Foundation supports Filipino-Japanese judokas ahead of 2028 Olympics

Okada Foundation has officially formalised its partnership with Filipino-Japanese judokas Shugen Nakano and Keisei Nakano, marking a significant step in its commitment to nation-building through sports development, according to BusinessMirror.

The charitable arm of Philippine integrated resort Okada Manila will provide PHP200,000 (€€2917.35)) per month per athlete for domestic training expenses, totalling PHP4.8 million (€70,000) for one year, to support their preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. 

The funding ensures sustained access to high-level training and competitive exposure as they pursue Olympic qualification.

The initiative supports the Philippine government's National Sports Development Plan, which calls for strengthened, multi-sectoral backing of Filipino athletes in their quest to bring pride and honour to the nation.

Members of the Philippine National Judo Team, the Nakano brothers were born in Iwate Prefecture, Japan to a Japanese father and Filipino mother, proudly representing the Philippines in international competitions. Shugen, competing in the 66-kilogram division, captured two gold medals at the 2022 Southeast Asian Games and additional golds at the Oceania Open Tahiti in 2022 and 2024.

Keisei, in the 73-kilogram division, has earned podium finishes in major international tournaments including the Oceania Open Tahiti, African Open Abidjan and Pan American Open Lima in 2024.

James Lorenzana, president at Okada Foundation, said Filipino athletes deserve sustained and meaningful support as they pursue excellence on the world stage. "Shugen and Keisei embody determination, resilience, and a deep sense of pride in representing the Philippines. We are honoured to stand beside them as they work toward their Olympic dream and bring glory to the nation," he stated.

The partnership also symbolises a cultural connection, with Okada Manila recognised for harmonising Filipino warmth with Japanese excellence.

Read complete partnership details in the full article.