A 12-man Philippine taekwondo team opens its campaign Thursday in the Asian Taekwondo Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan which will also serve as a tryout for the coming Asian Games.

The team is composed of Japoy Lizardo (finweight), Jeffrey Figueroa (bantam), Nicole Mapilisan (fly), Alex Briones (middle), Marlon Avenido (welter), and Butch Morrisson (feather) in the men’s side.

Two-time Olympian Toni Rivero (welter) banners the women’s side composed of Jyra Lizardo (fly), Elaine Alora (middle), Karla Alava (bantam), Camille Manalo and Michelle Monterey (fin).

The team left last Sunday with coaches Rocky Samson, Dindo Simpao, Korean Kim Hong and Sik Jesus Morales, who will be officiating in the four-day affair.

The association decided not to send Tshomlee Go to the meet in order to “hide” him from rival scouts.

RP team assistant coach Dax Morfe said the exposure is an important factor in selecting members of the taekwondo team to the Guangzhou Asian Games in November.

Team members and coaches would also have the chance to scout their Asian Games opponents.

Morfe said some countries are also expected to send some of their best bets in the Asian championships. “ Kaya magandang venue ito para makita nila kung nasaang level na yung performance ng mga makakalaban nila,” Morfe said.