Barriga and the GUV Cup

Mark Anthony Barriga gave the Filipino nation much to cheer for when he pummeled Italy’s Manuel Cappai in the light flyweight division of the boxing event of the London Olympics.

Barriga, though so much shorter than his opponent, asserted his dominance that even led to a standing eight count for the Italian in the first round. I believe it should have been two standing eight counts, but the 5-2 advantage in points after round one gave the Pinoy a huge advantage.

The second round wasn’t as eventful as the first, but the Filipino boxer continued his mastery of the former world championship bronze medalist with a 4-2 edge in that canto.

The final round proved to be the ultimate display of Barriga’s boxing ability as he outscored the Italian 8-3. His quick movement inside the ring and the punches that he unleashed from all angles helped the Pinoy upstage his foe.

That win was, however, just the first step towards the dream of a gold medal for the Philippines. For Barriga to reach the gold medal match, he has to win his next three assignments.

It will be a tall order for the native of Panabo City, Davao del Norte, but it is possible. Go for Gold Pinoy!

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The eighth season of the Governor’s Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup was launched yesterday at the Capitol Social Hall.

It was launched alongside the Governor’s Cup Horseshow and Competition and the Airsoft Open.

The GUV Cup, which I have seen grow into the biggest volleyball event of the country, has achieved so much the past seven years.

One of the biggest of these achievements is the recognition given by the Philippine Volleyball Federation (PVF) to Cebu as the country’s “volleyball capital.”

I believe, the other major achievements of the GUV Cup is the promotion of the sport in various levels around Cebu and of course, the free education many of the players are now getting from colleges and universities that have recruited them.

We also have Palarong Pambansa winners from the GUV Cup and we have uplifted the standard of coaching and officiating.

I can recall the first meeting we had about this event eight years ago at one of the coffee shops of Glenn Soco near Chong Hua Hospital. There were three of us there – Glenn, Paolo Garcia and myself.

Paolo is the son of Gov. Gwen Garcia and was tasked to oversee the staging of the tournament.

It seems such a long time ago. Now I am very proud and happy to see how the event has not only used volleyball to promote unity, but also development in the various areas of this province that is my one and only home.

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MILESTONES: Happy birthday greetings go to my cousin Kimble Lebumfacil, my classmates Celeste Tan and John Roel Desuyo, Dr. Richard Condor, Madame Anabelle Tan-Amor, and my mistah Jay Divino, who are all celebrating today.

More power to all of you!