Philippines to Host WKF Karate One Youth League Manila

The Philippines is set to welcome the global karate community as it officially hosts the WKF Karate One Youth League, scheduled on May 14-17, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

The Philippines will serve as the host country, with the event hosted and organized by the national federation, the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc., in partnership with the World Karate Federation.

The prestigious international youth competition is supported by the Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Milo, and the SM Group of Companies, underscoring strong collaboration between international sports bodies, government institutions, and private sector.

The event is expected to welcome approximately 3,000 athletes and around 500 international and local officials from nearly 100 countries, making it one of the largest global youth karate gathering ever staged in the Philippines. As a primer youth competition, it will also draw a significant number of parents, families, friends, and supporters, resulting in a substantial influx of both international and domestic tourists.

This strong participation is projected to generate very active sports tourism, boosting hotel accupancy, transportation services, dining, retail and local attractions. The presence of athletes and their families will transform the competition into a multi-day tourism and cultural experience, further positioning Manila as a leading destination for major international sporting events.

Beyond its economic impact, the WKF Karate One Youth League serves as a vital development platform for young athletes, providing world class competition under WKF standards while promoting discipline, excellence, and international friendship.

Hosting the WKF Karate One Youth League Manila 2026 highlight the Philippines' growing stature in global karate, its proven capacity to stage world-class events, and its continued commitment to youth sports development and sustainable sports tourism.

Top honcho of the KYLO Manila'26. (Menchie Salazar)