The Okada Foundation, Inc. (OFI) has officially formalized its partnership with Filipino-Japanese judokas Shugen Nakano and Keisei Nakano, marking a significant step in its continued commitment to nation-building through sports development.
From left to right: James Lorenzana, Okada Foundation, Inc. President, Filipino-Japanese judokas Keisei and Shugen Nakano, and Kenji Sugiyama, Managing Director, Corporate Management and Administration for Okada Manila.
Under the partnership, OFI will provide PHP 200,000 per month per athlete for domestic training expenses, totaling PHP 4.8 million for one year, to support their preparation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The funding ensures sustained access to high-level training and competitive exposure as they pursue Olympic qualification.
The initiative supports the Philippine government’s National Sports Development Plan, which calls for strengthened, multi-sectoral backing of Filipino athletes in their quest to bring pride and honor to the nation.
Members of the Philippine National Judo Team, the Nakano brothers are Filipino-Japanese who were born in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. They are proudly representing the Philippines in international competitions.
Members of the Philippine National Judo Team, the Nakano brothers were born in Iwate Prefecture, Japan to a Japanese father and Filipino mother, proudly representing the Philippines in international competitions. Shugen, competing in the 66kg division, captured two gold medals at the 2022 SEA Games and additional golds at the Oceania Open Tahiti in 2022 and 2024. Keisei, in the 73kg division, has earned podium finishes in major international tournaments including the Oceania Open Tahiti, African Open Abidjan, and Pan American Open Lima in 2024.
The partnership also symbolizes a meaningful cultural connection. Okada Manila is recognized for harmonizing Filipino warmth with Japanese excellence—values reflected in the Nakano brothers’ pursuit of Olympic glory.
The partnership reflects Okada Manila’s belief that Filipino athletes deserve sustained and meaningful support as they pursue excellence on the world stage, according to OFI President, James Lorenzana.
“This partnership reflects our belief that Filipino athletes deserve sustained and meaningful support as they pursue excellence on the world stage,” said James Lorenzana, President of Okada Foundation, Inc. “Shugen and Keisei embody determination, resilience, and a deep sense of pride in representing the Philippines. We are honored to stand beside them as they work toward their Olympic dream and bring glory to the nation.”
Through this initiative, OFI continues to strengthen its role in nation-building, empowering individuals who uplift communities and inspire the next generation of Filipinos to rise with confidence and carry the nation’s pride onto the world stage.
