World No. 1 Aislynn Yap clinched the gold medal in the women’s -80-kilogram division to cap off the Philippines’ campaign in the Asia and Oceania Sambo Championships on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Yap defeated Zamzagul Faizollanova of Kazakhstan in the championship round, giving the host country Filipinos its third gold medal of the continental tournament.

Last Saturday, Jomary Torres and Princess Aumagel Cortez dominated the -50kg and -59kg divisions, respectively.

Meanwhile, Jasmine Ching settled for the silver medal in the -54kg division after Kazakhstan’s Guldana Almukhanbetova claimed the gold.

The Philippines wrapped up its campaign with three gold, four silver, and seven bronze medals for a total of 14 medals.

For Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, the country’s strong showing and successful hosting of the Sambo Championships should help promote the sport among the youth.

“What is more important is we showcase Sambo to our young Filipinos. The Philippines has 150 million Filipinos, and more than 50 percent are youth,” Gregorio said.

“Let us work together. Let us collaborate because you have a very progressive and very active president in Paolo Tancontian.”

Gregorio also thanked the Sambo Union of Asia and Oceania for giving the Philippines the opportunity to host the Sambo Championships.

“But once again, thank you very much for visiting the Philippines. Thank you very much for giving us the opportunity to host the Sambo Championships,” Gregorio said.

“We hope to invite you again in the near future.”