Panabo to host ABAP-Mindanao tilt

MANILA, Philippines - The Smart-ABAP Mindanao Area boxing tournament gets going May 30 in Panabo City, Davao del Norte with at least 400 amateur fighters participating.

Coming on the heels of the Visayas leg (Ormoc and Kananga in Leyte) of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines’ nationwide talent-search program, the Mindanao phase will involve clubs representing Regions 9-13 plus the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Rep. Antonio Lagdameo (Second District/Davao del Norte) will host the Mindanao tournament which is part of ABAP’s overall program culminating in a gold medal finish in the 2012 London Olympics.

“I’m proud and honored to continue the successful boxing program of my predecessor (former Rep. TonyBoy Floirendo),” said Lagdameo.

“Boxing is a sport which instills discipline, dedication and perseverance, values which are sorely needed in developing our country’s youth,” he added. “Mindanao is rich in natural resources, including amateur boxers, and this tournament will surely serve as a fitting venue to showcase their talent and skills.”