ABAP transparent in picking Phl pugs

MANILA, Philippines - The Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) yesterday said it will remain unbiased and as transparent when it comes to the selection of athletes representing the country in international competitions.

“Suggestions are always welcome although we’ve been doing that all along,” said ABAP secretary-general Patrick Gregorio yesterday.

The other day, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia said ABAP could be missing out on boxers with good medal chances because of what is perceived as “bata-bata system” or favoritism in the selection of boxers for the national team.

Garcia called for transparency in the formation of the national team, not only in boxing but in other disciplines as well. He said “there should be tryouts and qualifying tournaments among all boxing clubs in the country so we can choose the best.”

Gregorio stressed that there is no favoritism within ABAP, which has been under Ricky Vargas since 2008, and they’ve been working closely with regional clubs like the ALA Boxing Club of Tony and Michael Aldeguer in Cebu City.

“We assure the (PSC) chairman his ideas are aligned with us. His worries are our worries, too. We thank him for his concern. ABAP is pro-active,” said Gregorio.

The boxing official also mentioned the diversity of the national team members in that reigning World Junior champion Eumir Marcial is from Zamboanga, World Women’s champion Josie Gabuco is from Palawan and Olympian Mark Anthony Barriga is from Davao.

Gregorio said ABAP regularly holds tryouts or box-offs, and the number of medals in the SEA Games, Asian Games and World Championships under the watch of Vargas is proof of a sound program from the elite down to the grassroots.

Nolito “Boy” Velasco, a long-time member of the ABAP coaching staff, also assured the PSC chairman there is no favoritism on the coaches’ part.

“We’re moving around the country with regional training centers in Baguio, Manila, Misamis Oriental and Bago City. May eliminations din naman. The performance of our boxers should speak for itself. Yun ang dapat tingnan,” said Velasco.

The ABAP will hold its elections on Oct. 20 in Bago City.