Kukkiwon Awards Honorary 9th Dan Certificate to Philippine President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.

Honorary Dan Certificate Presented at the “Philippine Taekwondo Association’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony” on August 22 (Sat)

Kukkiwon has awarded an honorary 9th Dan certificate to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Bongbong Marcos).

On Saturday, August 22, Kukkiwon President Yun Ung-suk attended the Philippine Taekwondo Association’s 50th Anniversary Ceremony held in Manila, Philippines, and presented President Marcos with an honorary 9th Dan certificate.

At the ceremony, since President Marcos was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict, the certificate was received on his behalf by four officials: Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Philippine Sports Commission Chairman John Patrick C. Gregorio, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham Tolentino, and Philippine Taekwondo Association President Rafael M. Alunan.

In a letter, President Marcos stated, “Since its founding in 1976, the Philippine Taekwondo Association has remained steadfast in its mission to develop Taekwondo in the Philippines,” adding, “Taekwondo has become more than just a sport — it has served as a means of instilling discipline, pursuing excellence, and shaping good character in generations of Filipinos.”

He added, “Through the Philippine Sports Commission, the government will provide full support for the continued development of Taekwondo, including the expansion of Taekwondo programs and the hosting of competitions.”

In his congratulatory remarks, Kukkiwon President Yun Ung-suk said, “I sincerely thank President Marcos for his deep interest in and affection for Taekwondo, and I ask for his continued support.” He added, “Let us reflect on the proud history that Philippine Taekwondo has built over the past half-century, and continue to build a new future for Taekwondo together—Kukkiwon and the Philippines side by side.”

Meanwhile, the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Taekwondo Association are constructing the National Taekwondo Center in the Vito Cruz area of Manila. This facility will serve as a new hub for the development of Philippine Taekwondo, , with completion expected this December.