The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) on Thursday, July 25, released a resolution expressing full support for the proposed charity boxing match between Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III and Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte.
“The proposed boxing match between PNP Chief Nicolas D. Torre III and Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Z. Duterte has come to the attention of GAB,¹ being a high-profile sporting event that could encourage the values of discipline, resilience, and camaraderie among Filipinos," according to the Resolution No. 2025-08.
The board committed to supporting the match by offering technical and medical assistance if requested by the participants.
This includes recommending qualified and professional referees and assigning licensed medical professionals, including physicians and paramedics, to prioritize the safety and welfare of the participants
“GAB recognizes that a nation that is physically fit and mentally alert is better able to respond to challenges, internal and external, and sports like boxing play a significant role in promoting physical fitness and mental toughness among citizens,” the resolution reads.
The resolution also ensures that all officiating will be conducted under established boxing standards and safety protocols, in line with GAB’s accreditation procedures.
Furthermore, GAB directed that official copies of the resolution be furnished to the offices of Torre and Duterte for their official reference.
In addition, a boxing ring was set up at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila for the charity match between the PNP chief and acting Davao City Mayor on Sunday, July 27.
The unusual showdown between the top cop and the Davao City executive stemmed from Torre’s acceptance of Duterte’s challenge, with the PNP chief proposing that the bout be turned into a fundraising event for charity.
In response, Duterte insisted that government officials undergo a hair follicle drug test before he agrees to step into the ring.
Meanwhile, Torre already starting his training, even jogging in the rain as part of his preparation for the anticipated match.
However, the Davao City acting mayor has flown to Singapore, according to information received by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
In addition, City 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has urged Torre to sign a waiver before facing Baste in their proposed bout.
The waiver, according to the lawmaker, would absolve his younger brother of any legal liability in the event of injury or any untoward incident involving either of the participants.
GAB reiterated that its primary role is to "ensure that it is conducted under the established rules and standards of boxing for the charity event.
