SEA Games: Gina Iniong clinches 2nd kickboxing gold for PH

Gina Iniong of the Philippines (blue) beats Thailand’s Api Mingkwan (red) in the Kickboxing – 55 kg kick light of the 30th Southeast Asian Games. EDWIN BACASMAS

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines scored its second gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games kickboxing event courtesy of Gina Iniong.

Iniong defeated Thailand’s Apichaya Minkhwan, 3-0, in the -55kg light kick final on Tuesday at Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay.

“We worked on our speed and striking [for this round],” said Iniong.

“My foe’s a tae kwon do [specialist], so coach Mark (Sangiao) just told me to get inside her range,” she added.

The Filipino kickboxer, who is also a member of the famed Team Lakay Stable, drew scores of 6-2, 6-1 and 9-1 from the judges.

Iniong joined Jerry Olsim among the Philippines’ top finishers in Games’ kickboxing competition.

On Monday, Renalyn Dacquel and Jomar Balangui settled for silver medals.

The Philippines can have another gold medal should Jean Claude Saclag defeat Mohammed Mahmoud in the -63.5kg low kick Final also slated Tuesday.