Tancontian told the Sun.Star Davao of the ongoing process towards ensuring recognition, which if approved will see athletes James Halasan Ryan and Sydney Sy Tancontian pioneer the launch of Philippine sambo this year. 

Filipino-British Ryan said he has given up judo, in which he is a black belt, and confirmed he would compete for The Philippines while still prioritising his ambitions in rugby. 

The teenager, who became a certified Filipino citizen in December 2015, has won several judo gold medals in Great Britain.

He also won a handful of medals, including golds, when he competed for Davao City in past editions of the Batang Pinoy national and regional judo and wrestling competitions.

Batang Pinoy is the Philippine Sports Commission Grassroots Programme.

Tancontian, meanwhile, said sambo will be more exciting for her as it is similar to her current sports of judo and wrestling.

The teenager, a judo varsity scholar from the University of Santo Tomas in Philippines’ capital Manila, recently won a gold medal in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Championships and a seventh Batang Pinoy judo title in Tagum.  

Tancontian will serve as an ambassador for sambo, committing to encouraging youth, especially girls.

Sambo is continuing to seek recognition from the International Olympic Committee after being overlooked in favour of muay thai and cheerleading during last month's Executive Board meeting.