Fighters from Team Lakay reflected on their journey on how martial arts have helped them not only with their professional career but also with life in general.

ONE strawweight king Joshua Pacio and former flyweight champion Geje Eustaquio, both hailing from the mountains of Baguio in the Cordillera region, shared how martial arts made a huge positive impact on their lives.

Pacio said martial arts has molded him into becoming a better person from 15 years ago before he first engaged in the discipline.

Contrary to the common misconception, martial arts isn't a brutal sport, said Pacio.

The action that takes place on the stage or canvas is more than just punching and kicking. It may look violent on the outside but Pacio explained a deeper meaning behind the sport.

“Martial arts principles help us in our everyday lives with how we approach people and relationships. It teaches us to apply discipline in all aspects of our lives, and of course, self-control mentally, physically, and emotionally," said Pacio, who began his professional career as a mixed martial arts fighter in 2013.

Eustaquio, for his part, echoed Pacio's sentiments and added the importance of developing one's self-discipline once immersed in martial arts.

Citing a quote from the animated film Kung Fu Panda, Eustaquio said "there is no secret ingredient, it's just you."

Martial arts also helped the former champion during difficult times, especially last year when the coronavirus pandemic hit and turned the global situation upside-down.

"I was constantly motivated and found different ways to stay active. When the mind is healthy, the body is healthy, and the spirit is healthy. Martial arts is my way of life," said the 31-year-old Eustaquio.

Martial arts has paved the way for life-changing events for Pacio and Eustaquio. And they are just two of the athletes not only in the Philippines but around the world who continue to apply and share their lessons in life.