The idea of a female boxer may still raise eyebrows in some parts of the world — but winning at it, and winning at the Olympics? That’s an entirely different level! Aira Villegas, a trailblazing boxer from the Philippines, is doing just that. She’s breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be a woman in sports, promoting equality one punch at a time.

In this special episode from the Women Who Inspire series of My Daily Race, Senator Pia Cayetano sits down with Aira Villegas to share her journey. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience — a reminder that with perseverance and grit, women can rise and thrive in any field, even in those still bound by outdated societal expectations.

Tune in to hear how boxing transformed Aira’s life and how her future in the sport is looking stronger than ever.

Resources:

• Bola, Buhay, at Pangarap: The Power of Sports in Changing Lives/Featuring Tennis Legends Johnny Arcilla and Marian Capadocia - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/my-daily-race/episodes/Bola--Buhay--at-Pangarap-The-Power-of-Sports-in-Changing-Lives--Featuring-Tennis-Legends-Johnny-Arcilla-and-Marian-Jade-Capadocia-e2vfcrv/a-abqcauu

• Marcus Jarwin Manalo,  Mental Performance Coach for the Philippine Boxing Team - https://www.instagram.com/marcusjarwin/

• MOA between the Games and Amusement Board Government of Taguig to provide medical support for licensed boxers - https://gab.gov.ph/the-gab-and-the-city-government-of-taguig-join-forces-to-provide-free-medical-services-to-applicants-for-licenses-in-boxing-and-other-contact-sports-who-are-bona-fide-residents-of-taguig-city/

Connect with Sen Pia Cayetano:

Official Website of Philippine Senator Pia S. Cayetano - https://piacayetano.com/

My Daily Race - https://mydailyrace.com/

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