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By James Konstantin Galvez, Reporter
DEPARTMENT of Education Secretary
Jesli Lapus is cold on the idea of scrapping boxing in the
Philippines.
“Boxing is one of the aged-old
sports where the country is recognized globally,” Lapus said.
It is even included in the annual
Palarong Pambansa except on the elementary division.
“How else do we develop world
class athletes if not through the youth,” Lapus noted.
His statement came after Nueva
Ecija Rep. Eduardo Joson filed House Bill No. 3743, which aims to
prevent boxers from fighting inside the ring anywhere in the
country.
Joson said boxing is a dangerous
sport and basic intent is to inflict physical injury on the
opponent. He cited studies showing boxing incidents that resulted
permanent damage to the fighter like brain injury and sight and
hearing loss and even death.
The bill seeks to penalize a
boxer with imprisonment (six months and one day to six years) and
fine of not less than P200 but not more than P6,000.
Last year, Angelito Sisnorio, a
native of Koronadal City, died after getting head injuries in a
boxing match in Thailand.
Lapus, citing records from the
Palaro, defended the sport of boxing among youth. He noted that
there has been no reported incidence of boxing accidents in the
meet.
“The ABAP supervises and
manages the competition to ensure the safety and sportsmanship,”
he said.
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