10/02/2026
Meet Qinning. 🥊
He’s 16 years old. A Grade 10 student at El Nido Public National High School.
This is a small glimpse into his life.
When Qinning was in Grade 1, his world changed forever. His mother passed away just a week after giving birth to twin siblings. The twins were stillborn. Years later, he lost his baby sister in a tragic accident.
With his father now living in Manila and having started a new family, Qinning—together with his older brother—spent most of his life being raised by their grandparents in a small barangay called Danat, learning resilience at an age when most children are still protected from the weight of the world.
Like many Filipino kids, boxing became Qinning’s escape. He started training with local kids in his area before hearing about Madness Gym. He wanted to train more seriously, but the distance made it nearly impossible. Getting to and from the gym meant long travel and daily obstacles—until he made a brave decision.
Today, Qinning lives at the gym.
Through the outreach program, we’re able to provide him with a roof over his head, allowing him to stay in school and fully commit to his training. His family sends ₱500 (equivalent to 8.50 USD or 7.2 Euros) a week to cover his basic needs, but it’s not enough—so we make sure he has extra food and the support he needs.
Each school day, Qinning walks nearly 5 kilometers to and from school. On good days, he hitches a ride with a friend passing by. On hard days, he walks—quietly, without complaint.
Life isn’t always fair.
But what matters most is what we choose to do with what we’re given. Qinning chooses to show up, to go to school, to train , and to better himself . One day at a time.
Qinning isn’t just fighting for a boxing title.
He’s fighting for stability, opportunity, and a future.
He fights for his life—every single day.
This is why we do what we do.
Because when a kid is given belief, access, and support, everything can change.
Posted with Qinning’s consent. 💙🥊
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