Jerick Ternida

MANILA, Philippines -- Filipino bodybuilding champion Jerick Ternida is holding the inaugural Jerick Ternida Classic to seek the best local bodybuilders from the grassroots level.

Ternida, who won the overall championship in the 2008 Muscle Mania Universe in Miami, Florida, said the amateur tournament will just be the first leg of a series of competitions.

“The first leg will be in Southern Luzon on February 13 sa Sta. Rosa, Laguna,” said Ternida during the PSA Forum at the Shakey’s UN Avenue Branch in Manila.

He said that at least 100 bodybuilders are expected to compete.

Ternida said the competition, which will be followed by a second leg in Rizal, will lead to a national tournament.

“By August, ready na kami for a national competition in order to get to the grassroots level,” said the veteran bodybuilder.

The competition will be composed of four divisions: men’s novice (open weight), men’s small division (130 pounds and below), men’s medium division (130 pounds to 145 pounds), and men’s tall division (145 pounds and up).

Each competitor will have to do 7 mandatory poses and will be judged for size and symmetry.

Ternida, who started bodybuilding at the age of 21, said the competition not only aims to promote bodybuilding but physical fitness as well.

Ternida is a veteran bodybuilder, having joined local and international competitions. He is a 6-time Mr. Philippines title-holder, 2003 Muscle Mania World Lightweight Champion, and Muscle Mania Universe 2008 middleweight Champion.

He also earned the distinction of being the first Filipino to win an overall championship, beating the heavyweight and super heavyweight contenders in Muscle Mania Universe 2008.