By Mikee Natinga Norico
Joshua Bañas clinches the U15 Boys Singles title, solidifying his place among the best young table tennis players in the world. Photo credit to Philippine Sports Commission Facebook Page.
Central Philippine University’s (CPU) very own Joshua Miguel Agabe Bañas, a 13-year-old Grade 7 student under the James section, once again proved his excellence on the international table tennis stage by clinching two championship titles in the World Table Tennis (WTT) Youth Contender Puerto Princesa 2025, held from February 12 to 15 at the Puerto Princesa Coliseum, Palawan.
Bañas, alongside his mixed doubles partner Olympia Ducanes, reigned supreme in the U15 mixed doubles category, defeating compatriots Chloe Silva and Rald Tanghal in an impressive straight-set victory, 11-2, 11-7, 11-7. The duo’s path to victory was no easy feat, overcoming Myzette Torres and U15 boys’ singles champion Khevine Cruz in a thrilling semifinal match, 11-7, 9-11, 13-11, 11-5.
After a first-round bye, Ducanes and Bañas dominated Zoellen Samson and Germain Barroga, 11-6, 11-8, 11-4, before edging out the Malaysian pair of Koh Wei Yeow and Chong Yi Hang, 11-8, 13-11, 11-6, to secure their spot in the semifinals.
Champions in U15 Mixed Doubles! Joshua Bañas and Olympia Ducanes dominate at the WTT Youth Contender Puerto Princesa 2025. Photo credit to Philippine Sports Commission Facebook Page.
Bañas also showcased his individual brilliance by clinching the U13 boys’ singles title, solidifying his position as one of the country’s top young table tennis players. These victories add to his already impressive resume, which includes a gold medal in the 2024 Palarong Pambansa boys’ singles, silver in boys’ doubles, and bronze in the 2024 Batang Pinoy 13-under boys’ division.
Joining Bañas in representing the Philippines were Miguel Ruiz Peredo, a Grade 10 student under the guidance of coach Jun Gayoso, and Ashton Remaneses, a Senior High School student mentored by Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on. Both athletes showcased remarkable performances, contributing to the country’s strong presence in the prestigious competition.
Bañas’ table tennis journey began when he was just six years old. Recruited by CPU’s Sir Jun Gayoso and the late Sports Director Edwin Laru-an during his Grade 2, Bañas quickly rose through the ranks, earning accolades such as a Palarong Pambansa silver medal in boys’ doubles while in Grade 5 and a Batang Pinoy bronze medal in 2023.
In December 2024, Bañas was also selected by the Philippine Table Tennis Federation (PTTF) to represent the country in a prestigious training camp in Doha, Qatar—a testament to his dedication and skill in the sport.
Reflecting on his success Bañas expressed his gratitude to CPU, saying, “As a member of the CPU Golden Lions, the school provided me and my teammates with the facilities and equipment needed, along with dedicated coaches and mentors. I am privileged to join national and international competitions, and I am forever grateful to Sir Jun Gayoso and Sir Cyrus Tolentino for pushing me to reach my full potential.”
His parents, Joecel Colacion Bañas and Jhona Marie Agabe Bañas of Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, emphasized the importance of balance and perseverance. “We guide Joshua on prioritizing between academics and sports while encouraging him to decide what’s best for him. We’re always by his side, especially during tough times,” they shared.
For young athletes aspiring to follow in Bañas’ footsteps, his parents advise: “Being a student-athlete is challenging. Time management, hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude are key to success.”
As Bañas continues to make strides in both national and international competitions, the entire CPU community stands proud, cheering for their Golden Lion, who exemplifies excellence, discipline, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.