Sunday, June 7, 2026

Top 5 Martial Arts and Kickboxing Gyms in South Luzon

  

Forget everything you know about a gym. RYC Wellness just redefined the game.

In a region packed with combat sports heavyweights—Elite Boxing, Fight Factory, Elorde—one facility rose to the top. RYC Wellness isn't just another place to train. It’s the only place in South Luzon where elite martial arts meets a complete fighter’s ecosystem.

Why? Because at RYC, you don’t just learn from anyone. You train under Jason Velez, known as “9 Dragons” for his mastery of nine martial arts, alongside Dewey Cooper, a world‑class kickboxing, boxing, and MMA coach with a championship pedigree. After class, you refuel with adaptogenic‑infused meals at the café, recover with Caracare—the world’s first carabao tallow lotion—at the med spa, and connect with your tribe at the social club and bar.

No other gym in the south offers that. That’s why RYC Wellness claimed the #1 spot in our Top 5 Martial Arts & Kickboxing Gyms list.

Train. Refuel. Recover. Connect.

RYC Wellness – where champions are made and sustained.

Top 5 Martial Arts & Kickboxing Gyms in South Luzon

RYC Wellness Claims Top Spot as Premier Destination for Fighters

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The martial arts scene in South Luzon has never been more vibrant, with world‑class facilities now rivaling their counterparts across Asia. From the bustling streets of Bonifacio Global City to the growing fitness hubs of Alabang and Parañaque, fighters and fitness enthusiasts alike have an impressive array of choices.

What sets the best apart isn’t just equipment or location—it’s the combination of expert coaching, community culture, and holistic support for athletes. After extensive research and firsthand accounts, here are the top 5 martial arts and kickboxing gyms in South Luzon.

1. RYC Wellness – The Complete Fighter’s Ecosystem

Location: South Luzon

Specialties: Striking, Conditioning, Combat Sports Methodology, Holistic Athlete Development

Head Instructors: Jason Velez & Dewey Cooper

Topping the list is RYC Wellness, a facility that has redefined what a martial arts gym can be. Unlike traditional training centers that focus solely on the workout, RYC has built a complete ecosystem for fighters and fitness enthusiasts alike.

At its core are two world‑class instructors. Jason Velez is renowned as “9 Dragons” for his mastery of nine distinct martial arts disciplines—a breadth of knowledge that allows him to seamlessly blend striking, grappling, and tactical systems into a unified approach. Dewey Cooper, a globally respected kickboxing coach and former professional fighter, brings elite‑level conditioning and fight strategy. Together, they offer a curriculum that is unmatched in its depth, whether training beginners or sharpening seasoned competitors.

But what truly sets RYC apart is its holistic approach. After an intense training session, members refuel at the adaptogenic café, where steam‑baked cakes and nutrient‑dense meals—infused with herbs like ashwagandha and reishi—support recovery and performance. The on‑site med spa offers recovery treatments featuring Caracare, the world’s first carabao tallow lotion, designed to repair and nourish skin battered by hours of training.

Beyond the physical, RYC functions as a social club where martial artists connect, unwind, and build community. With themed nights like Funky Old School Friday and Swing & Salsa Sunday, the space transforms from training ground to gathering place—a concept unmatched by any other gym in the region.

Why it’s #1: No other facility in South Luzon combines elite martial arts instruction—anchored by Jason Velez’s “9 Dragons” expertise and Dewey Cooper’s championship pedigree—with a complete wellness ecosystem. RYC doesn’t just train fighters; it sustains them.

2. Elite Boxing & Muay Thai BGC – Championship‑Caliber Training

Location: 2nd Floor, Tower 1 High Street Corporate Plaza, 9th Avenue Corner 26th Street, BGC, Taguig

Elite Boxing & Muay Thai has earned its reputation as one of the most respected combat sports facilities in Metro Manila. What makes this gym stand out is its coaching staff—a roster of former national team members and professional champions who bring elite‑level expertise to every class .

The facility itself is top‑tier: high ceilings, clean showers, fresh equipment, and a spacious layout that accommodates both boxing and Muay Thai practitioners . Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn fundamentals or an experienced fighter preparing for competition, Elite’s coaches—including highly praised instructors like Coach Yul, Coach Alvin, and Coach Marlon—tailor instruction to your level .

With an impressive 4.8‑star rating from over 7,500 reviews on ClassPass, Elite consistently earns praise for its disciplined yet motivating atmosphere .

Why it’s #2: Elite delivers championship‑level instruction in a premium facility, making it the gold standard for traditional combat sports training in BGC.

3. Fight Factory – The MMA Powerhouse

Location: 32nd St, Taguig, Metro Manila

Fight Factory has long been a cornerstone of the Philippine mixed martial arts scene. The gym gained national prominence when it hosted an open workout for ONE FC Filipino Warriors—including MMA stars Kevin Belingon, Eduard Folayang, and Honorio Banario—a testament to its standing in the combat sports community .

The facility offers a comprehensive range of disciplines: boxing, Muay Thai, MMA, and Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu . With a 4.4‑star rating from 35 reviews, members consistently praise the clean environment, friendly staff, and professional trainers . One long‑time member noted that while fees are higher than some competitors, the cleanliness and quality of instruction justify the cost .

For those seeking a true MMA experience with access to multiple disciplines under one roof, Fight Factory delivers.

Why it’s #3: Fight Factory’s ONE FC history and comprehensive MMA offerings make it the go‑to destination for mixed martial artists in the south.

4. Elorde Boxing Gym (Multiple Locations) – The Legacy of a Legend

Locations: Festival Mall (Muntinlupa), Parañaque, Alabang, and others throughout Metro Manila

Founded by the legendary Gabriel “Flash” Elorde—one of the greatest boxers in Philippine history—the Elorde Boxing Gym chain has become synonymous with boxing excellence across the country. Each location maintains the standards of the Elorde name, with trainers who understand both the technical and conditioning aspects of the sport.

The Festival Mall location in Muntinlupa offers Muay Thai alongside boxing, with reviewers praising coaches who are “particular to correct form” and ensure students learn proper technique . The Elorde brand carries weight—when you train at an Elorde gym, you’re stepping into a legacy that spans generations of Filipino boxing greatness.

Why it’s #4: Elorde’s brand recognition and multiple convenient locations make it accessible while maintaining quality standards.

5. The Lab – Modern Combat Sports Training

Locations: Legazpi Village, Makati; Bonifacio Highstreet, BGC; Pasig City

The Lab has carved out a reputation as a modern, welcoming space for combat sports enthusiasts. With locations across the south, The Lab offers boxing, Muay Thai, MMA, and Jiu‑Jitsu classes in clean, spacious facilities .

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of instruction, with one noting that “Jayr was great attentive and gave amazing workouts,” while another highlighted that trainers like Rennel are “patient to a beginner” . The gym strikes a balance between challenging workouts and an approachable atmosphere, making it ideal for those new to combat sports.

Why it’s #5: Multiple convenient locations and a beginner‑friendly approach make The Lab accessible to a wide audience.

What Makes a Great Martial Arts Gym?

When choosing where to train, consider these factors:

· Coaching Quality: Look for instructors with competition experience or formal training backgrounds. Elite’s national team coaches and RYc’s Velez‑Cooper partnership (with Velez’s “9 Dragons” breadth) represent the gold standard .

· Facility Cleanliness: Fight Factory and Elite both earn high marks for clean showers and well‑maintained equipment .

· Community Culture: The best gyms feel like communities, not just workout spaces. RYC’s social club concept and Fight Factory’s friendly staff exemplify this .

· Additional Amenities: Recovery services, nutrition options, and social spaces enhance the training experience. RYC’s café and med spa lead the way in this area.

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Final Thoughts

South Luzon has become a true destination for martial arts and combat sports training. While traditional powerhouses like Elite Boxing and Fight Factory continue to deliver championship‑caliber instruction, RYC Wellness has reimagined what a martial arts facility can be—creating a complete ecosystem where fighters train, refuel, recover, and connect. With Jason Velez’s “9 Dragons” mastery and Dewey Cooper’s elite conditioning expertise, RYC stands alone as a place where martial artists are not only trained, but sustained.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or stepping onto the mats for the first time, these top five gyms represent the best of what South Luzon has to offer.

About Ryc wellness.

RYC WELLNESS HEALING CAFE, MED SPA WITH PEMF, SELFDEFENSE GYM. 

62 RODEO DRIVE, WESTBROUGH TOWN CENTER, SOUTHFORBES, NEAR NUVALI..


Friday, June 5, 2026

Meet the Doctors Behind Mold Manila: Experts Redefining Aesthetic Care with Precision and Compassion

 

Combining medical excellence, artistic precision, and patient-focused care, Dr. Donna Eramis and Dr. Mhel help clients achieve their aesthetic goals through evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — At Mold Manila, aesthetic medicine is guided by a commitment to safety, personalization, and natural-looking outcomes. Central to this mission are two accomplished practitioners whose expertise and patient-centered philosophy continue to shape the clinic's growing reputation: Dr. Donna Eramis and Dr. Mhel.

Dr. Donna Eramis, a Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon with the Philippine Academy of Aesthetic Surgery, brings a unique combination of medical expertise and artistic vision to aesthetic medicine. Known for her meticulous approach, she carefully evaluates each patient's concerns, facial features, and aesthetic goals to develop customized treatment plans that enhance natural beauty while maintaining balance and harmony.

As a member of the Philippine Academy of Aesthetic and Age Management Medicine, Dr. Donna remains committed to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest innovations in aesthetic medicine and cosmetic surgery. Her philosophy extends beyond physical enhancement, focusing on helping patients build confidence and feel empowered in their own skin through safe, compassionate, and expertly delivered care.

Joining her is Dr. Mhel, a Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Aesthetic and Age Management Medicine Inc., who has more than four years of experience in aesthetic and age-management medicine. She specializes in non-surgical facial rejuvenation, including botulinum toxin treatments, skin boosters, biostimulators, thread lifting, acne and melasma management, hair restoration therapies, and medical weight management.

With a particular focus on collagen-stimulating procedures and non-surgical face lifting using absorbable threads, Dr. Mhel is recognized for creating refreshed, balanced, and natural-looking results. Her personalized approach ensures that every treatment plan is tailored to a patient's unique concerns, medical history, and long-term aesthetic goals.

Together, Dr. Donna and Dr. Mhel represent Mold Manila's dedication to combining medical excellence with individualized care. Their shared belief in enhancing—not altering—natural features has helped countless patients achieve greater confidence while maintaining authenticity.

As demand for minimally invasive and scientifically backed aesthetic treatments continues to grow, Mold Manila remains committed to delivering expert care through practitioners who prioritize patient safety, innovation, and lasting results.

About MOLD Manila

MOLD Manila is a premium, clinician-led aesthetic clinic based in Quezon City, Philippines. Known for its technology-driven, non-surgical treatments and personalized care, the clinic specializes in skin rejuvenation, non-invasive contouring, laser treatments, and IV wellness therapies. MOLD Manila is committed to education-first, results-driven aesthetics designed for real Filipino skin.

Mold Manila Spotlights Mold Plasma Lift: The Non-Surgical Alternative for Lids, Lines, and Sagging Skin


 Mold Plasma Lift is a comprehensive, non-surgical skin-tightening solution for mild to moderate laxity. It contracts and remodels skin to reduce wrinkles, soften crepiness, refine stretch marks, and provide a non-surgical alternative to blepharoplasty for eyelid rejuvenation—delivering firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Mold Manila spotlights Mold Plasma Lift for clients who want visible lift and tightening—without incisions or general anesthesia. Powered by precision plasma energy, this treatment contracts lax skin and stimulates collagen remodeling to improve elasticity, diminish fine lines, and address sagging across the face and body.

Plasma Lift creates controlled micro-plasma arcs on the skin’s surface, producing pinpoint thermal contraction while triggering a natural healing response. The result is immediate tissue tightening followed by progressive improvement over several weeks as new collagen forms. This mechanism makes Plasma Lift a compelling non-surgical alternative to blepharoplasty for suitable candidates with mild to moderate eyelid laxity—while also effectively targeting other areas of concern.

Common treatment areas include:

Before and after treatment showing improved skin texture and a smoother appearance around the eye area.

• Eyelids and undereyes (crepiness, hooding, crow’s feet)

• Perioral region (smoker’s lines, lip border)

• Neck and jawline (laxity, fine lines)

• Body zones with crepey or stretched skin (abdomen, arms, knees)

• The appearance of stretch marks

What to expect:

• In-clinic procedure with topical numbing for comfort

• Initial tightening visible immediately; continued improvement over 6–12 weeks

• Typical course of 1–3 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, tailored to goals and skin quality

• Short downtime: transient swelling and redness, followed by tiny carbon crusts that shed naturally within about a week

While Plasma Lift can meaningfully tighten and contract excess lax skin, it is best suited to clients seeking a non-surgical route with minimal downtime and natural-looking results. For significant skin excess or prominent fat pads, surgical blepharoplasty may remain the gold standard; Mold Manila provides candid guidance to help clients choose the right pathway based on anatomy, expectations, and lifestyle.

Safety and suitability are central to our protocol. During consultation, Mold Manila evaluates skin type, medical history, and treatment goals to individualize settings and reduce risks such as temporary pigmentation shifts. Pre- and post-care instructions are provided to optimize healing, support even results, and maintain skin health.

With this reintroduction, Mold Manila underscores its commitment to evidence-informed, minimally invasive rejuvenation. Mold Plasma Lift expands options for those who want tighter, smoother, more resilient skin—on the eyelids and beyond—without the tradeoffs of surgery.

To determine candidacy or plan a personalized treatment series, contact Mold Manila in Quezon City for a professional assessment. Results and recovery times vary by individual.

About MOLD Manila

MOLD Manila is a premium, clinician-led aesthetic clinic based in Quezon City, Philippines. Known for its technology-driven, non-surgical treatments and personalized care, the clinic specializes in skin rejuvenation, non-invasive contouring, laser treatments, and IV wellness therapies. MOLD Manila is committed to education-first, results-driven aesthetics designed for real Filipino skin.

GigGenius Officially Launches in the Philippines on June 28, 2026, Introducing the World’s First Truly Fair Freelance Marketplace

 

preview GigGenius, a new global freelance marketplace, officially launches on June 28, 2026 with a mission to redefine how freelancers and businesses connect, collaborate, and grow in the digital economy.

As freelancing industry and remote work continues to reshape the global workforce, millions of professionals are seeking opportunities beyond geographical boundaries. Yet many freelancers still face barriers such as pay-to-apply systems, costly bidding mechanisms, excessive platform fees, and unequal visibility that can make it difficult to compete fairly regardless of talent or experience. GigGenius was created to challenge that model. Positioning itself as a marketplace built on fairness, transparency, and accessibility, GigGenius removes many of the obstacles that have become common across traditional freelance platforms. Rather than requiring freelancers to purchase credits, connects, or bids simply to access opportunities, the platform allows professionals to compete based on their skills, expertise, and the value they bring to clients. “GigGenius was built on a simple belief: opportunity should never be locked behind a paywall,” said founder Hainz'el Llanely Cantos. “We want freelancers to be recognized for their abilities, while businesses gain access to exceptional talent without unnecessary complexity. Our goal is to create a marketplace where success is earned through performance, trust, and collaboration.” At launch, GigGenius introduces a range of innovations designed to create a more balanced experience for both freelancers and employers. The platform promotes fair visibility for talent, helping ensure that opportunities are not dictated by who can spend the most for exposure. Businesses can hire for one-time projects, milestone-based engagements, or long-term partnerships through a streamlined and intuitive hiring experience. To strengthen trust across the marketplace, GigGenius incorporates identity verification processes, secure payment protection, anti-exploitation and anti-fraud safeguards that help protect both clients and freelancers throughout the project lifecycle. These measures are designed to foster greater confidence and accountability in remote working relationships. Beyond freelancing, GigGenius is building a broader ecosystem focused on professional and business growth. The platform provides access to educational resources, mentorship opportunities, and community-driven support that help freelancers develop their careers while enabling entrepreneurs and organizations to scale more effectively. Inclusivity also remains a core part of the company's vision. GigGenius is committed to creating a more accessible digital workforce through initiatives that support underrepresented communities and expand opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds. In addition, the company offers a recurring affiliate rewards program that allows advocates, recruiters, creators, and business partners to earn ongoing commissions by helping grow the GigGenius community. The initiative is designed to reward long-term contribution and participation rather than one-time referrals. The launch comes at a pivotal time for the Philippines, which has established itself as one of the world's leading hubs for remote talent. Filipino professionals continue to serve businesses across industries ranging from customer support and virtual assistance to software development, design, marketing, finance, and consulting. By removing unnecessary barriers and prioritizing fairness, GigGenius aims to empower Filipino freelancers to compete more effectively on the global stage while helping businesses discover trusted professionals with greater ease and confidence. As the company begins its international expansion, GigGenius remains committed to building a marketplace where talent, opportunity, and trust come together to create meaningful economic growth for individuals and organizations alike. For more information, visit www.gig-genius.io.

GigGenius Officially Launches in the Philippines on June 28, 2026, Introducing the World’s First Truly Fair Freelance Marketplace

About GigGenius
GigGenius is a global freelance marketplace founded by Hainz'el Llanely Cantos. Built on the principles of fairness, transparency, and accessibility, the platform connects freelancers and businesses through a secure and opportunity-driven environment. By eliminating pay-to-apply barriers, promoting equal visibility, and providing tools that support long-term growth, GigGenius is helping shape a more inclusive future of work.

Top 5 Martial Arts and Kickboxing Gyms in South Luzon

   Forget everything you know about a gym. RYC Wellness just redefined the game. In a region packed with combat sports heavyweights—Elite Bo...