Davao City’s 1st District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has responded to the proposed boxing match between Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III and Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte. He has advised Torre to sign a waiver before proceeding with the match, which would absolve both parties of any legal liability should any incidents occur during the bout.
Duterte emphasized the importance of accountability among public officials, particularly those in high-ranking positions.
“Kung seryoso siya, mag-sign muna ng waiver. Kay kung mapuruhan sya, mamatay, mapriso, akong igsoon. Mag-pirmahanay sa sila sa abugado. Mas maayo na. Puro man kaha sila isog,” Rep. Duterte said.
In addition, Rep. Duterte backed up Mayor Baste’s proposal that all government officials participating in the match undergo a hair follicle drug test.
“If they are truly clean, then they have nothing to worry about… This should be standard if we want to set a good example for the public,” Pulong added.
While reiterating his support for his brother, Duterte also criticized the boxing challenge as a mere show and advised Torre to simply donate if he really wants to.
“Kung gusto talaga niyang tumulong, mag-donate na lang siya. Hindi na kailangang idaan pa sa suntukan,” he said. “This isn’t showbiz. We need public servants focused on real solutions, not side shows.”
The proposed charity boxing match has elicited varied reactions online, with some supporters backing the idea, while critics have raised concerns regarding its implications.
Meanwhile, preparations for the said charity event are already ongoing, while Mayor Baste Duterte has reportedly flown out of the country to Singapore.
