08/03/2026
Last year, I was told by my coach that I had been selected for international competition. I chose not to share this with many people right away, keeping it only within my family and friends until I could confirm my spot as an official player and make a public announcement.
Months down the line, last December I joyfully made the official announcement that I would be competing in Pattaya, Thailand. I quickly took care of my passport application, which I finally received in January. Every aspect was organized and processed, including securing my tickets and accommodation in Thailand. Beyond these preparations, I began training intensely and managing my weight, driven by how eager and devoted I was to this competition.
On March 5, 2026, exactly three days before my scheduled flight, I headed to Taguig early to stay with a travel companion who would be joining me on the trip to Thailand. While I was on my way, my head started to hurt, and small bumps appeared all over my body along with itching. But I did not pay attention to them, thinking they were just due to tiredness and simple itching. However, the next morning, things got even worse and more bumps appeared. After seeing a doctor, I learned I have airborne chickenpox. As a result, I am prohibited from traveling internationally at this time.
For this reason, I want to sincerely apologize to everyone who was counting on me for this competition. I know some of you may be disappointed and heartbroken, and honestly, I am too,perhaps even more so. This was an opportunity I’d been waiting for ages to come my way, yet it didn’t work out in the end. Every bit of energy I spent organizing my travel documents, booking arrangements, and pushing through grueling training sessions feels wasted right now. Still, I firmly believe that God has something greater in store for me, and that this turn of events is part of his plan.
To my mother Agnes Bobis Almonte and father Jaime Almonte Jr. words can’t fully express my gratitude for all the hard work and sacrifices you poured into making this possible. To my Padaba Hanna Rose Abines thank you for being my anchor through every ups and down, always helping me stay grounded and calm. I’ll never forget your wise words that there may be something even greater waiting for me, and that life moves forward with purpose.
Also thank you so much to my Coach, Tito Jonathan Noble , and Sir Jho Nuylan Jr. for your continuous support and faith in me. Also, a huge thank you to my Sangariya MMA Batang Mandirigma and to SJCC family I truly appreciate all of you.
To all the members of MTBSA, thank you so much for welcoming me with open arms! Specially to Sir Jaime G Ignes , maraming Salamat po. And of course to every single person who showed their support, from those who helped with expenses. To everyone who sent their well-wishes and good luck messages, my heartfelt gratitude to all of you.
Attached/Shown below are photos of my passport, flight reservation, hotel booking, medical results from the doctor, and an official letter from MTBSA. Additionally, I’ve included exchanges conversation with my coach to show that all preparations are complete and that every bit of financial support allocated for this competition has been utilized.
Sana padagos man po giraray ang saindo pang suporta sako lalo na sa mga maabot pang oportunidad sakuya, sa giraray nag hahagad akong tawad sa gabos na dissapoint buda nag asa maski ako man po dae ko man ig hagad na mangyare ini sako pero wara man po akong maginibo. Dakulang salamat po saindong gabos asin sa pag sabot.
