Payla posts big win vs Korean

PYONGYANG, North Korea–Flyweight Violito Payla made it seven for seven in the semis for team Caltex Philippines in the Pyongyang International Boxing Invitational tournament here but featherweight Roel Laguna and light middleweight Christopher Camat absorbed contrasting losses to settle for the bronze in the compact but tough championship.

Payla, a 23-year-old Armyman from Cagayan de Oro, toyed with Korean No. 2 Kim Chun Ho to hack out a 15-10 decision while catching the fancy of the organizers and other contestants here with his ring savvy.

Coming through with a variation of combinations, Payla controlled the bout from the start to write finis to the Korean’s Asiad team bid.

The team, sent by Caltex Philippines with support from the Philippine Sports Commission, Pacific Heights and Revicon for the Filipinos final international stint prior to the Asian Games, however, cut short its celebration when Laguna was busted by Song Chol Nam.

And to make matters worse, Camat absorbed a scandalous 17-12 loss from Tong Kil Hyo, who was repeatedly jarred by the Filipino’s body blows throughout the four-round fight.

"Sobra namang nakakahiya yong ginawa nila kay Camat," bewailed coach Boy Velasco. "Yung kay Laguna, talagang talo pero yung kay Camat, hindi. Pati nga yong Koreano, napailing nang itaas ang kanyang kamay."

A review of the fight and the scorecards showed Camat actually outhit the Korean but somehow, Camat’s points failed to register in the computer.

The AIBA computer system calls for at least three of the five ring judges to press the points button within a second to register.

"Pinupuntosan nga si Camat pero hindi naman sabay sabay, kaya wala rin," lamented head coach George Caliwan, who could only nod in disbelief when a head blow by Camat resulted in a mandatory standing eight-count for the Korean. The point did not register as well as the body blows that had the Korean embracing Camat to stay standing.

The squad, headed by Felix "Bogie" Apostadero, resumes its bid for finals berths today when lightfly Harry Tanamor, bantam Ferdie Gamo and lightweight Anthony Igusquiza climb the ring.

"Nangako ang tatlo na ibibigay nila ang lahat para sa birthday ni coach Boy (Velasco)," coach Pat Gaspi declared.

Tanamor goes for the gold medal against Jon Sang Ryol while Gamo and Igusquiza bid for similar spots in the finals against two Koreans.