How a Japanese Sensei Builds Community Through Karate at Verdon Parc

At Verdon Parc, karate became Fumio Ikari’s way of bringing neighbors together. (Photo by Fumio Ikari)

There are many ways to bring people together. For Japanese resident Fumio Ikari, it is through sharing his passion for karate in his community at Verdon Parc condominium in Davao City.

On selected afternoons, residents gather on the roof deck, covered multi-purpose court, terraced garden, or the function hall to practice karate under his guidance.

Karate has long been part of who Fumio is. Even after moving to the Philippines, he continued to carry the discipline and values he learned over decades of practice.

Living in Verdon Parc for the past four years, he found an opportunity to share that lifelong passion with the people around him by establishing the 日本空手協会 (JKA) Davao Verdon Parc International Karate School.

“Doing karate is the happiest time for me,” he says. “Doing karate, and teaching karate.”

Three years ago, he began holding regular classes within the community. What started as a small group of curious residents gradually grew into a steady circle of learners of different ages and backgrounds.

Some join to stay active. Others come to build confidence or learn self-defense. Many stay for the experience of learning karate with a true Japanese sensei, seeing the beauty of the Verdon Parc community, and getting to know their neighbors better like Heather.

Fumio with his students.

“While living in Verdon Parc and attending the karate (classes) here, it just makes me see how much more beautiful Verdon Parc is especially doing it on the roof. It’s just beautiful at night. And you really get to have a sense of the community, meet other people in the community, and make connections like that as well,” Heather said.

Accessible to Everyone

One of the things that sets Fumio apart is his belief that karate should be accessible to everyone—not just children or competitive athletes.

“In the Philippines, most dojos are aimed at children,” he explains. “But all over the world, students can be all ages.”

This philosophy shapes the way he teaches. In his classes, beginners and experienced students train side by side.

Adults who may have never tried martial arts before are welcomed just as warmly as young learners taking their first steps onto the mat.

He encourages participation, not perfection. His approach has helped create a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable learning at their own pace. Over time, many discover strengths they did not expect—greater balance, sharper focus, and renewed confidence.

Cherishing Small Victories

His classes welcome all ages–children and adults. (Photo by Fumio Ikari)

For Fumio, the most meaningful moments are often the simplest ones. “I want to see the students growing up day by day,” he says. “A little growing up.”

He notices when a student holds a stance longer than before, remembers a sequence of movements, or shows patience during a difficult drill. These small victories, repeated over weeks and months, are what keep him motivated. “When I see the student growing up day by day, it is enjoyable for me.”

He understands that karate training can be demanding. Not everyone continues for long, and he accepts that reality with quiet honesty.

“Many people give up quickly,” he says. “But a small number of people continue for a long time. Even though the training can be tough, we can still find something fun and enjoyable.”

Those who stay often develop resilience and discipline that extend beyond the training sessions.

Lessons That Last a Lifetime

Ask Fumio what matters most in karate, and his answer is immediate. “Effort and self-discipline. Manners and effort.”

These principles guide every class he teaches. 

Students learn to bow before and after training, to respect their classmates, and to keep trying even when movements feel difficult.

Over time, these habits become part of their daily lives. Parents notice children becoming more focused. Adults discover renewed determination. 

His students especially enjoy holding their karate classes on the roof deck, where the breathtaking views of Davao City and the Davao Gulf create an energizing and inspiring atmosphere for training. (Photo by Fumio Ikari)

Through karate, Fumio has quietly helped build connections within the community—one class at a time.

A Teacher Who Leads by Example

Today, Fumio remains a steady and familiar figure at Verdon Parc, known not only for his skill but for his patience and dedication. He continues to train alongside his students, demonstrating that learning never truly ends.

For him, teaching is not about recognition or achievement. It is about sharing knowledge, guiding others, and watching them grow stronger—physically and mentally.

And this is very much appreciated by his students.

“Sensei Fumio is very, very patient. I really appreciate that. He is willing to go the extra mile to make sure that we understand karate,” said Andrew.

“The most important lessons are effort and manners. I want to see the students growing up day by day,” Fumio says.

For Laura, she admires Fumio for doing things “in a very Japanese way.”

“He does things in a very Japanese way. Not only the training itself and the methods but everything including the manners, respect, and little details. So, it’s very much like Japanese karate,” Laura said.

Together, their voices reflect what Fumio has quietly built at Verdon Parc—a community grounded in effort, respect, and shared growth.

DMCI Homes is the country’s first Quadruple A real estate developer, with projects in Mega Manila, Baguio City, Tuba in Benguet, San Juan in Batangas, Boracay, and Davao City. Each of its properties is built with world-standard craftsmanship borne from D.M. Consunji Inc.’s over 70 years of expertise in the construction and development industry.    

 

To learn more about Verdon Parc and other DMCI Homes’ pre-selling and ready-for-occupancy projects, units for lease, and special promos, visit www.dmcihomes.com or call (682) 2970447 and (682) 327-3438 in Davao and 324-8888 in Manila. You can also visit leasing.dmcihomes.com to know more about opportunities in leasing and rent-to-own programs of DMCI Homes. News and other updates are also posted on the company’s official website and its social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.