Muay head's death forces gun ban

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Sports Commission will impose a gun ban inside its premises in the aftermath of yesterday’s fatal shooting of Muay Thai Association of the Philippines president Roberto Valdez at Philsports in Pasig City.

Chairman Harry Angping of the PSC said since hundreds of athletes in the national pool are also enlisted men in the military and police, most of them carry firearms in their quarters or when they report for training.

“This practice has to stop. Athletes who are in the armed services can no longer carry their firearms inside our premises. They have to deposit them to security before they are let in,” said Angping.

Angping said the gun ban will cover the entire Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Philsports in Pasig and even the Teacher’s Camp in Baguio where the national athletes train, and are billeted.

The different national sports associations (NSAs) also hold office in these premises, including the Philippine Olympic Committee.

Jose Cojuangco, POC president, was at Philsports when the shooting took place.

I was there watching our coaches and athletes going through their enhancement program when I was told of the incident. But I would prefer not to comment until I can be sure of what really happened,” he said.

At around 10 a.m. yesterday, Valdez reportedly had an argument with the suspect, Armyman Sonny Sumales, at the dugout area of the MTAP gym inside Philsports (formerly Ultra).

Sumales is said to be a former member of the RP Muay Thai team but was recently removed from the roster by the 40-year-old Valdez.

At the height of their argument, the suspect pulled out his gun and fired shots at the sports official, hitting him thrice in the left armpit and shoulder, then fled the scene carrying his firearm.

Valdez was pronounced dead on arrival at the Medical City Hospital.

“It was unfortunate. Now, this practice of athletes, coaches, trainers and even sports officials carrying firearms inside our premises has to stop. It’s intimidating seeing armed persons around,” he said.

Angping said the killing of Valdez is a blow to the Muay Thai Association, considering that its athletes have good chances of winning the gold in the 25th SEA Games in Laos in December.

“It might affect the spirit of the athletes considering that they have a big potential in Laos. Mr. Valdez loved the sport where he is a black belter. Again, it is very unfortunate,” said the PSC chief.