NBP hosts first ever prison bouts

The country’s next boxing champion might just come from Bilibid.

Bureau of Corrections (Bucor) Director Vicente Vinarao said anything was possible as he discussed his latest project, the first ever boxing event among inmates to be held at the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP) Multi-Purpose Center from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow.

Vinarao told The STAR that they formed two teams — the Muntinlupa Bulls and the Mindoro Tamaraws — and lined up two main events, seven four-round matches, five three-rounders and for the finale, they arranged a bout between two gay inmates, identified as "Precy" and "Buchay."

He said the idea of holding bouts within prison walls was presented to him by former Oriental Mindoro Gov. Jose Villarosa days after he was convicted on two counts of murder. Villarosa arrived at the maximum security compound of the NBP last March 1.

"This plan was immediately set in motion because both Gov. Villarosa and I are fond of boxing. The governor asked financial aid from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) and the money was used to purchase boxing equipment, set up a boxing ring and to hire trainers," Vinarao said.

One of the sponsors of the event is former Zamboanga Rep. Romeo Jalosjos, another inmate.

The show is called "Boxing to the Max — Todo na ‘to!" with tickets to be sold for P30 for the general patronage area and P100 for ringside seats. Proceeds would be used for the purchase of more sports equipment.

"We want them to develop themselves. We do not only rehabilitate personnel through education, but sports as well. Who knows, we might find another Manny Pacquiao," the Bucor chief said.

He recalled that former world-boxing champion Rolando Navarete, called the "Bad Boy of Dadiangas," also served time in prison.

Guest boxing judges are Mar Pajirillo, Joe Francisco and Lito Dacayanan. – Evelyn Macairan