MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines Behrouz Elite Swimming Team (PH BEST) bagged six gold medals, 12 silver medals, and seven bronze medals to clinch the first place trophy at the recently concluded 2025 Junior National Championships held at the Rizal Memorial Swimming Pool in Malate, Manila.
Filipino-British swimmer Hannah White starred for PH BEST, claiming two gold medals and three silver medals in the girls’ 13-year division.
White, an ABC International School standout, showcased her impressive form by dominating the 100m butterfly with a time of 1:07.34 and also excelled in the 50m butterfly, clocking 30.03 seconds.
White added three silver medals to her collection in the 100m freestyle (1:03.19), 400m freestyle (4:58.68), and 50m freestyle (28.50).
PH BEST team manager Joan Mojdeh said, “I’m happy about the progress our swimmers made at the national tryouts. Their improved times are a testament to their hard work and the dedication of our coaching staff.”
“It’s fantastic to see the collaboration between seasoned coach Sherwyn and our talented new coaches, Jeremiah and Emman, with the continued support of Coach Jerricson Llanos, who’s been with BEST since the beginning,” she added.
Ana David also made a strong showing, claiming two golds, six silvers and one bronze in the girls’ 15-year class.
David topped the 200m freestyle (2:12.25) and 200m breaststroke (2:47.66), while finishing second in the 400m freestyle (4:48.01), 200m butterfly (1:06.83), 50m freestyle (28.32), 200m IM (2:30.46), 100m freestyle (1:00.72) and 50m butterfly (30.39).
She settled for bronze in 200m butterfly (2:31.58).
Yugo Cabana also excelled, winning two gold and three bronze medals in the boys’ 15-year category.
Cabana dominated the 200m butterfly (2:13.30) and 100m butterfly (59.15). He secured bronze medals in the 100m freestyle (55.68), 50m butterfly (27.24), and 200m IM (2:19.55).
Mojdeh said, “This step-by-step approach with our young swimmers is certainly the right way to build a strong foundation.”
Palarong Pambansa qualifier Behrouz Mohammad ‘Madi’ Mojdeh also showed strength, securing three silver medals and one bronze in the boys’ 14-year class.
The Immaculate Heart of Mary College-Paranaque standout finished second in the 200m butterfly (2:16.60), 400m IM (4:58.58), and 100m breaststroke (1:13.30), while earning bronze in the 200m breaststroke (2:41.03).
Annika Quinto contributed two bronze medals in the girls’ 14-year category, finishing third in the 50m backstroke (34.14) and 100m backstroke (1:12.74).
Joan expressed, “While I’m somewhat saddened that none of our swimmers qualified for the SEA Age this year… it’s crucial to focus on the notable progress our young swimmers have made.”
Mojdeh also added concerns about inconsistent programming and calendar from the association, hoping for a clearer framework soon.
Mojdeh thanked the coaches and parents who work hard to continuously support the young swimmers’ program.
“Focusing on our young athletes’ mindset development and international experience is crucial,” Mojdeh said, adding, “A heartfelt thank you to the parents, coaches, and swimmers for their hard work and mutual support. This collaborative spirit is truly the key to long-term success.” TMT