Photo by jackiebuntan/Instagram
Filipino-American fighter Jackie Buntang has been vocal about the strength she draws from the strong Filipino community every time she steps into the ring to fight.
For Buntang, a former ONE Strawweight Muay Thai World Title contender, national pride in the Philippines is what drives her determination and tenacity, making each bout more than a personal victory.
“I would say my Filipino-American identity combines the best of both worlds, culturally speaking,” Buntan said.
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In an interview with Sportskeeda, Buntan spoke about how his Filipino-American roots have helped him make a name for himself in the global martial arts world.
“My Filipino-American roots have definitely helped shape me as a fighter,” she explained, “It shows me that I have passion, tenacity and grit. I have the freedom to dream and believe in what I want to achieve. There's no bigger blessing than being able to express what I do and be able to do it at the highest level.”
Buntang's career has also been driven by a desire to inspire others, and she thanked the martial arts organization for giving a platform to Asians like her in the field. “Growing up, there wasn't a big stage for me to look up to,” she admitted. “To be on the ONE stage representing Filipinos and Asians at the highest level means the world to me.”
She wants to show the world that Filipinos and Asians in general can achieve anything if they have the determination and focus: “I want the world to know that not only Filipinos, but Asians in general, can succeed and achieve anything they put their mind to.”
The 26-year-old fighter from Palos Verdes Estates, California, made two important trips to the Philippines in October 2022. These visits allowed her to immerse herself in Filipino culture for the first time and connect with her roots.
Despite her initial fears about visiting a foreign country, Buntang soon learned that Filipino hospitality is real and powerful, making her feel at home. She realized that the warmth and support from the Filipino community was not just a myth, but a tangible experience that strengthened her identity and purpose.
Finally, she proudly stated, “My name is Jackie Buntang and I am a proud Filipino American.”
