THE Games and Amusements Board (GAB) has stepped in and vowed to ensure the safety and integrity of the proposed boxing match between Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III and Davao City acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte.
In a resolution titled “A Resolution to Ensure the Safety and Integrity of the Proposed Boxing Match Between PNP Chief Nicolas D. Torre III and Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian ‘Baste’ Z. Duterte,” the GAB will recommend a qualified and accredited professional referee to officiate the bout.
It also mandates that a medical team will be on standby to provide immediate assistance should the need arise.
The GAB said that it is acting “upon the request of PNP Chief Torre and Acting Davao City Mayor Duterte.”
Interestingly, the GAB is the government’s body for regulating professional sports in the country, like the Philippine Basketball Association and professional boxing. The Torre-Duterte bout, if ever materializes, is an amateur event.
Despite being 55 years old, Torre says he is fully prepared for the highly publicized clash, though he admits that his age and endurance could be a disadvantage against the 37-year-old Duterte.
“The Rizal Memorial Coliseum is actually ready. The ring is already being set up for Sunday,” Torre said.
He added that even if Duterte fails to show up, the event will still push through as an outreach activity.
“If he (Duterte) is not there, we will just continue with our activity of giving ayuda to our kababayan,” Torre said.
Duterte, for his part, has yet to confirm participation and laid down a bold condition in a video statement — all elected officials, including the President, must undergo a hair follicle drug test.
Torre said the match is intended to raise funds for victims of recent heavy rains and flash floods.
“I am prepared. Back when I was a plebe at the Philippine National Police Academy, I experienced being punched while my hands were tied behind my back. I see this challenge as an opportunity to raise funds and help our fellow Filipinos,” he said.
Speculation is mounting on social media that the Torre-Duterte bout could be aired on pay-per-view, but no official confirmation has been made.
