Powerlifting Association of the Philippines president Eddie Torres is selling some of his rare Superman comics collection to help finance his wards’ education, training, and participation in competitions abroad.
Torres, once hailed as the Strongest Man in the Philippines, was a former powerlifting champion himself. He idolizes Superman so much that he started collecting Superman stuff, including rare editions of DC Comics’ Superman magazines.
For a collector, rare editions are priceless possessions, but for Torres, providing for the need of her promising, world-class athletes like Veronica Ompod, Jessa Mae Vivero Tabuan, and Jane Erasmo has become more of prime importance.
“I am throwing my support behind these three young world-class powerlifters to complete their college education and help secure their future. They have brought honor to our country with their international wins/records and will continue to do even greater things for our country in future Asian & World championships,” Torres said in a long post on his Facebook page before the year ended.
After sifting through some of his prized heap of Superman stuff, he found several copies of Superman DC Comics from 1947 to 1955 and put them in an auction on eBay.
Torres said he is donating all the proceeds to the housing expenses of her three athletes and other expenses in international competitions that are not covered by the support of the Philippine Sports Commission.
Ompod, who holds six Asian records, is preparing to compete in the World Championships this year.
“2023 will be her final year in the juniors, so I would like to give her all the chances to further increase her Asian records. She currently holds 6 Asian records. She has also broken world records twice,” Torres said.
In mint condition, the magazines are lot-priced at around $24,775 or roughly P1.3M. But since the books are not near mint (NM), Torres said the books can be won for a much lower price.
The auction is found on this link: https://www.ebay.com/itm/325519725072 and ends at 11 PM (PH Time) on Feb. 8. Free FedEx shipping to anywhere in the world.
Aside from the auctions, Torres is also raising funds by selling Titan powerlifting paraphernalia and vintage powerlifting magazines. For the price list, send an email to plscholars2023@gmail.com.
Powerlifting is a growing sport and is already being played in the World Games.
