MANILA, Philippines – A member of the Airport Police Department will lead the Philippine judo team in their quest for athletic excellence in the World Martial Arts Masterships in Cheongju, South Korea.

Airport Police 1 (APO1) Julie Irene Divina, a member of the Airport Police Department (APD) assigned with the APD Training Unit, has been competing in judo for the past 20 years, and has won several medals while representing the Philippines in various tournaments worldwide.

She has previously represented the country in the Southeast Asian Games prior to joining the APD.

Divina and her husband, Robert Divina, are former members of the Philippine judo team. Likewise, her only daughter, Andrea Camille Davina, was also a member of the Ateneo Judo Association, and an international competitor.

Divina was allowed by airport general manager Ed Monreal to join the Philippine judo team as a coach in the upcoming Martial Arts Masterships that will be held from August 31 to September 6 in South Korea this year.

"Her experience, dedication, discipline and passion to judo will boost the morale of our players in this upcoming competition," said Monreal.

Divina, on the other hand, is appealing for prayers to support their cause.

"Ipagdasal at suportahan niyo po sana ang Philippine judo team," she said. -- By Raoul Esperas

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