It is with great pride that I introduce Glennee Esquejo, our Philippines Representative for the International Inclusive Taekwon-Do Association (IITA). Glennee’s story is one of dedication, legacy, and a deep personal commitment to empowering others through the art of Taekwon-Do. Her arrival into the IITA family is a milestone that fills me with hope for the future of Inclusive Taekwon-Do in Southeast Asia and beyond.
A Legacy Rooted in Family and Tradition
Glennee Esquejo, 3rd Dan Black Belt, has been practicing Taekwon-Do for over two decades. Her journey began under the loving guidance of her late father, Gerardo “Jerry” Esquejo—one of the pioneers of ITF in the Philippines. The spirit and strength of her father continue to live on through her training and her teaching.
Today, Glennee trains under Sabum Nestor Madelar (4th Dan), her father’s student and closest friend, creating a rare and beautiful lineage of mentorship, loyalty, and shared vision for Taekwon-Do in the Philippines.
A New Chapter Begins: Inclusive Taekwon-Do in the Philippines
While the Philippines is only just beginning its journey into Inclusive Taekwon-Do under the IITA banner, Glennee has already embraced the mission wholeheartedly. At Little Bees Learning and Development Center, where she teaches, inclusion is not an afterthought—it is the foundation. Every child is welcomed. Every individual is seen. And every student is believed in.
From students with delayed developmental progress to those with learning or behavioral challenges, Glennee teaches with humility and heart. “They learn from me, and I learn from them too,” she says. “Seeing them improve, seeing them do things that are new to them—it’s priceless. It always puts a smile on my face. It’s a compliment to myself that I’m doing a good job.”
Teaching with Heart and Purpose
Each training session and competition holds deep meaning for Glennee. The joy of seeing her students compete, grow, and overcome limitations is what fuels her every day. Her goal is simple yet powerful: to encourage and inspire every individual, regardless of disability, to believe they can be somebody someday—with proper guidance and support.
It is this attitude—grounded, kind, and courageous—that exemplifies the true spirit of IITA.
Building Inclusive Communities Through Taekwon-Do
Glennee doesn’t speak for the entire country, but she leads by example. With the support of Ms. MC Hidalgo, owner of Little Bees, inclusivity is embedded into every advertisement, program, and class. Together, they are reshaping how Taekwon-Do is perceived and practiced in their community.
She now dreams of reaching more communities that support people with disabilities, introducing Taekwon-Do not just as a sport—but as a therapeutic, confidence-building tool that can positively impact lives.
A Vision Shared With the World
When asked what makes the Philippines’ approach to Inclusive Taekwon-Do unique, Glennee points to their integration with therapy, school systems, and even pool sessions—demonstrating creative, context-specific solutions to reach and support more individuals.
Her message to the global IITA community is both a call and a promise:
> “Together, let us help create a safe environment for every individual, regardless of their disability. Let’s encourage them to be part of building a better community where everyone is heard, and everyone is valued.”
A Personal Note
As President of IITA, it makes me truly proud to welcome Glennee into our international family. She represents the very heart of what we do. Her story is a reminder that change begins with one person who dares to include—and in doing so, opens the door for so many others. We are honored to walk alongside her in this journey.
Let’s continue to build a world where Taekwon-Do is for everyone. 🌍
—
Ben Evans
President
International Inclusive Taekwon-Do Association (IITA)
