PSC eyes Bukidnon as center for boxing training

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has identified the Bukidnon Sports and Cultural Center as a potential training ground for future national athletes.

PSC chair Patrick Gregorio, along with Senator Miguel Zubiri and local government officials, recently toured the facility, which features a 15,000-seat stadium, a track and field oval, a football field, and an aquatics center with an Olympic-size swimming pool and diving pool.

According to Gregorio, the facility is a perfect fit for the region.

“Boxing is perfect for a region like Bukidnon. Many boxers hail from Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon, General Santos City, and even Davao,” said Gregorio.

“One of our coaches, Mario Fernandez—a two-time SEA Games gold medalist—is from Malaybalay. Ironically, Mario is currently based in Baguio, training 13- to 15-year-old boxers from Bukidnon. Clearly, there’s something off with that setup,” he noted.

The Bukidnon Sports and Cultural Center also features a 3,000-seat gymnasium that can be used for basketball, badminton, and martial arts, as well as a tennis court, an open field, an auditorium, and a museum.

“I’m very happy to be here. Thumbs up to the development of your province and city—such beautiful facilities. I’ve seen many training centers around the world, and this is truly world-class,” said Gregorio.

Zubiri, meanwhile, said the Senate, along with the Bukidnon LGU, will support the PSC’s efforts in establishing regional sports centers.

“We’ll support your regional training centers—that’s our commitment in the Senate. Mayor Warren and Governor O’Neil are here with us. We are one Bukidnon, so rest assured you’ll have our full support. We’re proud to host the boxing team,” said Zubiri.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News

Click here to read article