Written by Keanwort K. Ambros, LPT.
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA — Young athlete and University of Baguio Laboratory Elementary School (UBLES) learner Gianna Matilda Z. Gonzales, a Grade 4 pupil, proudly represented herself and her school at Skate Asia 2026, held from August 6 to 16, 2026, at Sunway Pyramid Ice, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Skate Asia 2026 brought together young ice skaters for a major regional competition showcasing skill, discipline, creativity, and sportsmanship. The event was officially scheduled by the Ice Skating Institute of Asia (ISI) and was held at Sunway Pyramid Ice, one of the established venues for the competition. The competition brings healthy competition in talent, earning the SDG target 4: Quality Education: Focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities.
For Gianna, the international competition was the result of years of dedication and continuous training. She began ice skating at the age of six, developing her skills through consistent practice and participation in various competitions. Before earning her place at Skate Asia 2026, Gianna joined numerous competitions in Manila, gaining valuable experience and working toward qualifying for the prestigious event.
At Skate Asia 2026, Gianna delivered an impressive series of performances, securing five podium finishes in the Freestyle 2 category:
- Solo Compulsory Freestyle 2 – 2nd Place, Silver Medal
- Freestyle 2 – 1st Place, Gold Medal
- Artistic Freestyle 2 – 3rd Place, Bronze Medal
- Drama Spotlight Freestyle 2 – 1st Place, Gold Medal
- Jump Fiesta Freestyle 2 – 2nd Place, Silver Medal
Her achievements reflect not only technical ability on the ice but also creativity, confidence, focus, and perseverance. The combination of athletic and artistic events allowed Gianna to demonstrate different aspects of her skating ability, from executing required movements to expressing creativity through performance.
Her journey also highlights the value of providing young learners with opportunities to discover their talents and pursue their passions. Through the support of her family, coaches, school, and community, Gianna continues to demonstrate that academic learning and athletic excellence can complement one another.
Gianna Matilda Z. Gonzales’ five-medal performance at Skate Asia 2026 is more than a collection of awards. It represents years of practice, determination, courage, and commitment to her chosen sport. From starting on the ice at six years old to competing on an international stage in Malaysia, Gianna’s journey serves as an inspiration to fellow young learners. Her success reminds children that meaningful achievements are built through patience, continuous learning, hard work, and the willingness to keep improving.
As a Grade 4 learner at the University of Baguio Laboratory Elementary School, Gianna proudly demonstrates that young Filipinos can excel both in the classroom and on the international stage. With every glide, jump, and performance, Gianna continues to skate toward excellence, bringing pride to her family, her Ibaloi heritage, her community, and UBLES.
