Not so many people know that a karate world champion has been living in Panglao Island, Bohol for more than 20 years now. Yes folks, Mike Stone, a former world karate champion and icon in the 70’s blew into town the other day and I had the honor of meeting one of the best martial arts disciples. Mike and I met at Casa Ilongga in Robinsons where I offered him authentic Ilonggo food but he said he was on a 30-day diet. Mike was a contemporary of Chuck Norris and Ed Parker since the duo participated in various karate tournaments around the world. I was even more elated when Mike said his style is Okinawan Shorin ryu, thats the same style I learned under Senseii Miyahira in the defunct Commando Self-Defense Karate Club owned by Latino Gonzalez, father of Roberto Gonzalez who later became an action star, starring in films like “Hari ng Karate”. I received my black belt in 1973. Mike himself starred in many karate movies including “ The American Ninja”, and I jokingly told Mike that in Bohol where he lives, there are many “ nija” (Boholano for niya”). Then I shifted my question to Priscilla Presley, wife of Elvis. Mike was Priscilla’s favorite escort in many gatherings in Los Angeles. Mike’s lips were sealed when I asked him if they had a relationship, after Priscilla and Elvis broke up. Anyway, Mike invited me to visit him in Panglao and see his house full of martial arts memorabilias. Mike is scheduled to depart for Seattle, Washington next week upon the invitation of Linda Lee, widow of Bruce Lee. Mike will cut the ribbon during the opening of the Wing Luke Museum that will exhibit all of 9 Bruce Lee’s memorabilia. Before we parted, Mike autographed my karate kimono. Wow! It was really great meeting a legendary karate icon Miguel Bato, este...Mike Stone.
Spirit of Wipro Run
The Spirit of Wipro Run fires off on September 21 at the Terraces in Ayala Center Cebu. Over 3,000 runners coming from Wipro will clog the streets of the Cebu Business Park. Wipro officials led by Rex Bispo, Jeff Orbita and Erica Roque said they expect the year’s edition of the race to be more “ bongga” especially during the awarding ceremonies where Elvisaya and the UC cheer dancers are expected to perform. Also on hand to entertain the kids are the Jollibee mascots and comedian Chokoleit. Since I’ll be directing the race, I’ll be missing the Asian Masters Athletics championship in Kitakami City, Japan that will be held on the same week as the WIPRO run. Some of these competing in Japan are Olympians Elma Muros and Roy Vence, Linda Lavandia, John Lozada, Nonoy Unso and Emerson Obiena. I promised to join the team next year in the World Masters Athletics in Paris, France.