Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III is pushing through with the charity boxing match at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum today (Sunday), whether or not his challenger, acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, shows up.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo yesterday said that preparations are complete, including the setup of the boxing ring, and safety arrangements have been coordinated with the Games and Amusement Board, which is deploying referees and medical teams.
“As the PNP chief said, while he is focused on his job, he will show up at the Rizal Coliseum on Sunday,” Fajardo said in a radio interview.
The event was initiated after Duterte challenged Torre to a fistfight in a podcast episode, which Torre accepted, turning it into a charity match to raise funds for victims of recent widespread flooding brought by combined weather systems that affected several areas and displaced thousands.
“And whether or not Mayor Baste would show up, our Chief PNP will be there. The PNP chief has mentioned he took Mayor Baste’s challenge as an opportunity to help our citizens who were affected by floods,” Fajardo said.
The match remains uncertain after Duterte reportedly left for Singapore on Friday.
Still, Torre remains optimistic, Fajardo said.
“A lot of sponsors have pledged their support. Whatever happens, the aid program continues,” Fajardo said.
Police boxing teams will also hold undercard matches to entertain the audience and encourage more donations.
Torre, 54, said he’s brushing up on his boxing basics, recalling his training days at the PNP Academy.
“This is not about strength but credibility. There was a challenge, and I saw an opportunity to help,” he said.
