The Filipino powerlifting community delivered an outstanding performance at Powermeet 17, a three-day strength sports event held from 31 October to 2 November 2025 at Zayed University, organized by Desert Barbell. With hundreds of athletes from across the UAE competing in classic powerlifting and the debut of Olympic weightlifting, the venue served as a major stage for both seasoned lifters and first-timers.
Among the standout delegations was a nine-member Filipino team coached by athlete-coach Robbie Ramos, who also competed in the meet. Ramos shared with TGFM, “I am an athlete, fitness and powerlifting coach in Dubai. I’m handling nine powerlifting athletes in different categories—two ladies and seven men.”
A strong Filipino lineup across weight classes
The Philippine team entered multiple divisions and delivered a string of podium finishes. Ramos confirmed the full roster and results:
Genely Dato-on – Under 57kg Category Champion (first-time competitor)
Mikaella Louise Serno – Under 84kg, 3rd Place (fourth competition; achieved a new Personal Best)
Genesis Canteras – Under 66kg, 3rd Place (first-time competitor)
Nicko Canteras – Under 74kg Category Champion (second competition; new Personal Best)
Karlo Sedigo – Under 74kg, 5th Place (fourth competition; new Personal Best)
Salvador Parafina – Under 74kg, 6th Place (first-time competitor)
Russell Magno – Under 74kg, 7th Place (second competition; new Personal Best)
John Oliver Rivera – Under 93kg, 4th Place (first-time competitor)
Syd Berlan Marcos – Under 105kg, 3rd Place (second competition; new Personal Best)
Robbie Ramos – Under 93kg Category Champion and 2nd Overall Men’s Lifter (second competition)
The spread of experience—from multiple-time competitors to several first-timers—reflected the team’s growth and inclusivity. Ramos noted that the wins were emotional for the group, saying, “Bringing home those medals wasn’t just a personal achievement, it was a win for every Filipino lifter who trains hard, even with limited resources.”
Months of preparation fueled by discipline and teamwork
The team began structured preparations months before Powermeet 17, combining strength training, mock meets, and recovery protocols.
Ramos explained, “We followed a progressive training program focused on improving our squat, bench press, and deadlift. Each member tracked their progress, refined technique, and did mock competitions to manage nerves and timing.”
Proper nutrition, recovery, and sleep were emphasized throughout their build-up to competition week. But what stood out the most, Ramos said, was their unity:
“Most importantly, we supported and motivated each other throughout the process, which helped build strong team spirit and confidence.”
Challenges on and off the platform
Like many Filipino athletes in Dubai, the team struggled to balance training with work responsibilities.
“One of the main challenges was balancing training with busy work schedules,” Ramos shared. Fatigue and limited rest made consistency difficult, but the group stayed committed through flexible training schedules and strong encouragement.
He added, “During the event, we kept the energy high, reminded each other to stay calm and focused, and celebrated every small win together.”
Behind every lifter is a support system
As the team’s coach, Ramos highlighted the crucial role of their coaching staff and support crew in managing strategy and morale during the competition.
“Our main role was to make sure every athlete was physically prepared, mentally focused, and confident on the platform,” he said. This included warm-up management, selecting attempts, and adjusting tactics based on performance.
Ramos also credited his brother and handler for being an essential part of the team’s success.
“I cannot do all of this without my brother/handler, Bonz Telen, who’s always there. Almost every event that our team has, all of this happens because of him.”
A message to aspiring Filipino athletes in the UAE
With the team’s remarkable showing at Powermeet 17, Ramos hopes more Filipinos find the courage to step into the world of strength sports.
His message was clear: “Get involved and be part of the community. All we need is the confidence to take that first step. Join local competitions, find a good coach, and learn as much as you can. With teamwork, discipline, and pride in being Filipino, we can continue to make our mark in sports here in the UAE.”
This year’s Powermeet expanded its scope by adding Olympic weightlifting for the first time, drawing rapid sign-ups and enthusiasm from athletes. The remaining days focused on powerlifting, following IPF-aligned standards, with the sports halls of Zayed University transformed into a competitive arena for lifters from across the region.
