President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led the nation today in celebrating the victory of Filipino boxers over their Mexican opponents in the World Boxing Cup at the Arco Arena in Sacramento, California.

In a statement, the President lauded the boxing champs whom she called
“symbols of Filipino excellence and persistence.”

I join the Filipino nation in giving our heartfelt congratulations to our boxing champs for their victory over Mexico, the President said.

The Philippine contingent composed of Gerry Peñalosa, Z. Gorres, AJ Banal, Michael Domingo and Diosdado Gabi all bested their Mexican foes – Jhonny Gonzales, Eric Ortiz, Jorge Cardenas, Miguel Roman and Jose Beranza, respectively, in separate encounters to win the coveted $500,000 cash prize and World Cup trophy.

Only Rey ‘Boom Boom’ Bautista of the six-man Filipino boxing contingent lost to his Mexican foe, WBO super bantam weight Daniel Ponce de Leon. 

“Gerry Peñolosa has shown remarkable courage and skill in winning his title,” the President said.  

She added that “Boom Boom Bautista’s loss is but a temporary setback, one that he will rise from with greater strength and determination.” 

They (the Filipino boxers) serve as role models for our youth while inspiring the rest of us to work hard for a more united and triumphant future,” she said. 

Under Boxing World Cup rules, the country that scores more wins takes possession of the World Cup, a gem-studded trophy estimated to cost $500,000. 

In case of a tie, the country with the more number of knockouts emerges champion. The country that wins the more number or rounds combined would be declared winner in the event of another deadlock. (PIA-Pagadian) 

Last update : 14-08-2007 12:03

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