From grit to greatness, the Century Tuna Superbods 2024 redefine fitness by sharing their journeys
Bodies are sculpted in the crucible of determination, dedication, and protein shakes. At the Century Tuna Superbods 2024 finals, muscles rippled and ambitions bulked up—a night where sweat mingled with grit, and abs vied for more than just beach days. The event was a flex-off of epic proportions: every sinew strained for the title of supreme fitness, and inclusivity prevailed as competitors showed us a spectrum of strength and diversity.
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Through presenting a variety of success stories and personal development accounts, the competitors encourage people to value their individuality and confidently and resolutely pursue their fitness objectives. Every participant’s experience at the competition is evidence of their ability to overcome obstacles in their lives and pursue greatness.
Angel Mallari remarked, “Being here in the Philippines for three months, I felt great. Before coming here, I was depressed. During the callback, I told everyone that I was here for redemption. Being a Superbod now, I am okay. I’m better. This is the best me ever.”
Aaron Davis pointed out, “Being a Superbod means a lot, because, of course, aside from chasing my dreams, I have the platform to be a role model for people, and just showcasing my story, and just showing that it’s relatable to people. For them to be able to chase their dreams and say, if I can do it, they can do it themselves as well.”
Advancing careers through influence has become pivotal in today’s interconnected world, where visibility and credibility can propel individuals toward new opportunities. For Superbods like Tony de Oteyza and Naia Ching, leveraging their participation means more than personal achievement. It’s also about establishing authority and trust within their respective fields, whether that may be an online fitness coaching business or an acting profession.
With past winners, Century Tuna Superbod 2022 Kirk Bondad, now Mr. World Philippines 2024, reflects, “Being single is really good,” he jokingly says, a thunderous roar escaping across the room. “I learned so much. If there’s one thing, it is to be proactive in surrounding yourself with like-minded people, people who keep you accountable, people who push you, people who build you up, people that you can help, where you can provide value.”
Christelle Abello, who overcame a traumatic car accident, expressed her gratitude: “I’m super grateful to Century Tuna Superbods for all the life lessons that I’ve learned and all these life lessons that I will carry on for the rest of my life. Being a Superbod has really changed my life because it is because of that that I am reminded that I can stay strong and outdo any obstacle that comes my way.”
Derick Hibaler, recipient of the Ageless Award at age 52, shared his lessons on perseverance and community. “I’ve realized a lot of lessons which I am grateful for with humility. I am happy that I’ve gained a lot of friends. To be at Century Tuna Superbods at this age means a lot to me. There’s a big expectation on my behalf because I give everything.”
Clare Dacanay, balancing motherhood and fitness, fronted her momentum. “I feel like it was very progressive as well as I got to know another version of myself, another chapter of myself. It was part of my journey not only as a fitness person but also as a mother having to juggle my health as a mom.”
Teo Cordial stressed the importance of inclusivity. “At first, I started having doubts, because as a curvy woman, we lack representation, especially in the fitness and health industry. But for me, what really kept me driven is to inspire more women out there and be the representation that I have never seen; to take up space and showcase that health and fit come in different shapes and sizes.”
Deaf competitor Jasmin Ariola empowers her sense of identity through self-awareness, reflection, and consistent practice while surrounding herself with supportive people who respect and acknowledge her differences. “Equality and inclusions are my requirement for our country to wake up. Supporting the deaf community ensures that individuals who are deaf have access to the same opportunities as their hearing counterparts, allowing them to fully participate in society.”
Patrick Patawaran, a runner-up with Jessica Marasigan, praised his success, enthusing, “I’m on Cloud 9. It feels surreal. Working out is my lifestyle and it’s my passion. There’s this saying, Do what you’re passionate about—that’s fitness for me.”
Justine Felizarta, the female winner of the 2024 edition alongside male winner Jether Palomo, shared her aspirations. “I’m driven to inspire others on their fitness journeys, host events with Century Tuna, and hopefully collaborate with more like-minded brands.” Her mission images her dedication: “To prove that with dedication and self-love, anyone can transform their life and become their best self.”
Fitness is also about the nourishment of the soul. Hazel Ortiz summed it up best: “I learned to be brave enough to present myself in my best me ever.”
Beyond showcasing physical prowess, the event celebrated courageous and authentic individuals as it promoted participants to mold their best selves, beside, perhaps, a canned tuna. Bodies are not just born; they’re built.
Photographed by GRANT BABIA
