Ancajas gets feel of Navy SEALs training, reception

Jerwin Ancajas got a feel of Philippine Navy SEALs training before being recognized as honorary member of the Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) on Tuesday, July 14.

And Ancajas swears the one-hour exercises referred to as “reception” compares favorably with a full day of boxing training.

“It’s hard,” said Ancajas. “Aside from physical exertion, it demands cooperation and coordination.”

Ancajas was referring to carrying the inflated rubber boat by each group. The rest like rolling in the sand, running, and pushups were routine to the reigning International Boxing Federation super flyweight champion.

A Navy reservist, Ancajas was offered the facilities of the Danielo Atienza Air Base in Cavite City for his preparations against Mexican challenger Jonathan Rodriguez in Las Vegas.

And Ancajas, a Senior Chief Petty Officer, seized the opportunity to further bolster his training with Joven Jimenez, also a former  Navy man..

According to Jimenez, Ancajas won’t be joining the SEALs in their drills, especially at sea, but would concentrate on boxing.

“We have everything we need here, including a boxing ring,” said Jimenez. “And there are no obstructions.”

The Navy also allowed Team Ancajas to train at Marine Base Gregorio Lim in Ternate, Cavite, and at the Philippine Naval Education and Training Compound in San Antonio, Zambales, last year.

Their latest foray into Navy territory was authorized by Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Giovanni Bacordo, Naval Reserve Command’s Major General Ariel Caculitan and NAVSOG Commander Capt. Dwight Dulnoan.

Team Ancajas first set up camp in Dipolog City due to the Taal Volcano eruption, before returning to Manila and holing out at  Survival Camp, their home base in Magallanes, Cavite, before the lockdown was imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since his arrival at Sangley Point last Friday, Ancajas resumed training with jogging, circuit workouts, and sparring with Daniel Lim and John Mark Alimane.

Also with Team Ancajas are strength and conditioning trainer Teddy Danoy and Derek Parcon.

Jimenez said they are still waiting for the opening of the US Embassy on July 31 for Ancajas to get his new visa.

Top Rank Inc. big boss Bob Arum and MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons are just waiting for Ancajas’ arrival in the United States to calendar his twice-aborted title duel with Rodriguez.

Despite the long delay, Ancajas said he remains focused and motivated.

Especially with extra assistance from the Navy. – Rappler.com