MANILA — Proving once again his dominance in the global Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) scene, veteran coach Alvin Aguilar captured four Coach of the Year awards at the Sport Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (SJJIF) World Championships held recently in Chiba, Japan.
Aguilar, founder of DEFTAC Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Philippines, was hailed as the best coach in four divisions — Gi Adults, NoGi Adults, Gi Kids, and NoGi Kids — after leading the Filipino contingent to an impressive finish.
“I am incredibly proud to share that I have received the Quadruple Award for COACH OF THE YEAR in the WORLD at the SJJIF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS held in Chiba, Japan!” Aguilar posted on his Facebook account.
“This honor recognizes my contributions in four categories: Best Coach in Gi Adults, Best Coach in NOGI Adults, Best Coach in Gi Kids, and Best Coach in NoGi Kids for 2025,” he added.
The rare distinction was based on the overall performance of Aguilar’s students, who collectively earned the highest points and produced the most champions in each category.
A proud Bacolod City native, Aguilar has been head coach of DEFTAC since 1996 and is widely regarded as the pioneer of Brazilian jiu-jitsu in the Philippines and the country’s first homegrown BJJ black belt.
He dedicated his latest achievement to his team, saying it was a reflection of years of teamwork and discipline.
“This achievement is the result of the collective effort of everyone at DEFTAC, from our dedicated Chapter Heads and Coaches to the supportive parents and, most importantly, our amazing students,” he said.
“Each of you has put in hard work and dedication, and while I may be the face of this achievement, it’s truly ALL OF US who have contributed to every victory we’ve celebrated,” Aguilar emphasized.
Aside from leading DEFTAC, Aguilar also serves as president and founder of the Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC), the Philippines’ pioneering mixed martial arts promotion.
He expressed gratitude to his longtime mentors Sensei Xande Ribeiro and Saulo Ribeiro for their guidance and inspiration throughout his martial arts journey.
The quadruple recognition adds another highlight to Aguilar’s nearly three-decade career, making 2025 a banner year for the Filipino martial arts icon./PN
