PRESS RELEASE – The 2025 Marianas Pro Manila Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held on April 5 and 6 at Festival Mall in Alabang, has established a new benchmark in the growth and global reach of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in the Philippines. With approximately 5,000 to 6,000 spectators over two days and nearly 1,000 competitors from around the world—among them, more than 120 athletes representing Guam—this year’s edition has officially become the largest Jiu-Jitsu tournament in the nation’s history.
As a flagship stop on the Marianas Pro Circuit, the Manila event exemplified the increasing prominence of the Philippines within the regional and international Jiu-Jitsu landscape. With its continued expansion and ability to attract elite-level talent, the Marianas Pro Manila has cemented its role as a key driver in the advancement of the sport throughout Southeast Asia.
In alignment with the Marianas Open’s ongoing commitment to recognizing and elevating high-performing athletes, fifteen (15) airline tickets were awarded to select winners during the event. These tickets will enable the recipients to travel to Guam and compete in the prestigious Marianas Open International this fall, where they will have the opportunity to contend for a share of the event’s $50,000 USD prize pool—one of the largest of its kind in the region. Most importantly, these athletes will arrive in Guam not only as competitors, but as proud representatives of their countries, carrying the honor of their flags and communities onto one of the most respected mats in the global Jiu-Jitsu circuit.
Steve Shimizu, President of the Marianas Open, offered the following statement:
“What occurred in Manila reflects more than the setting of a record—it signifies a generational milestone for Jiu-Jitsu in the Asia-Pacific. The Marianas Open remains steadfast in its mission to promote excellence, integrity, and opportunity through world-class competition. We are proud to support the continued development of athletes who represent the very best of our sport. Those selected to compete in Guam will not only showcase their skill—they will carry the pride of their nations and embody the spirit of our regional unity.”
The Marianas Open extends its sincere appreciation to the City of Alabang, the management and staff of Festival Mall, the local organizing committee, and the broader Filipino Jiu-Jitsu community for their partnership, hospitality, and unwavering support. The success of this historic event would not have been possible without the dedication of all participating athletes, coaches, sponsors, and spectators.
The next leg of the Marianas Pro Circuit will be held in Taiwan on April 26 and 27, 2025. Registration for the event has officially closed after exceeding 120% of its planned capacity, with athlete turnout again nearing the 1,200-competitor mark. As in Manila, fifteen (15) airline tickets will be awarded to top-performing competitors in Taiwan, granting them the opportunity to compete in Guam for their share of the $50,000 USD prize pool. Those selected will represent their countries with distinction and compete on Guam’s international stage, further strengthening the cultural and athletic bonds fostered through the Marianas Open platform.
The Marianas Pro Circuit continues to lead the development of Jiu-Jitsu across the Asia-Pacific region and remains dedicated to providing premier platforms for competition, growth, and international collaboration.
