Another Filipino Pride In Sports: Weightlifters, Emerge As World Champions

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica — Congratulations to Filipina powerlifters Jessa Mae Tabuan and Jane Erasmo for record-breaking performances in the 2025 IPF World Sub-Junior and Junior Powerlifting Championships in San Jose, Costa Rica.

“Finally, I can now officially say that I am a 3x World Champion, thank you so much po, coaches,” the 22-year-old Jessa Tabuan said on her Instagram.

Radyo Pilipinas reported that Tabuan won gold in bench press, with a lift of 110kg, setting a new Asian Junior record. Her second gold, with a total of 452.5 kg, surpassed the Philippine junior record by 17.5kg.

Moreover, Tabuan earned bronze medals in squat at 170kg and deadlift at 172.5kg.

She also won world titles 47kg division in 2023 and 57kg class in 2024.

In Erasmo’s Facebook, the Filipina powerlifter said she earned gold in benchpress at 130k while silver and bronze medals for squat and deadlift, respectively. She had a total of 496 kg in total, breaking the Asian total record by 27.5kg.

“This achievement is not mine alone, but also for my coaches and everyone who helped and supported me along the way. Maraming Salamat sa Inyo. Grateful beyond words! Lord. Champion,” Erasmo said on Facebook.

Photo courtesy: Jessa Mae Tabuan IG, Jane Erasmo FB, International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)