The Proposed Boxing Commission
The Senate session this evening turned into a hot debate between senators Manny Pacquio and Senate Minority Floor Leader Franklin Drilon when Senator Pacquiao proposed the creation of a Philippine Sports Boxing and Combat Commission which according to him would protect professional boxers and those learning the ropes of boxing. According to Paguiao’s proposal, since by its very nature the antagonists are meant to harm each other, the proposed Boxing Commission may set up guidelines, rules and regulations in coming up with some kind of monetary reward or hospitalization benefits for the harm they may suffer in the course of training. Pacquio also contended that most retired boxers do not receive any pension after retirement. Per reports, the bill is having an uphill battle in the Senate after disclosing that it would need up to P150 million in appropriation to maintain the Commission. On the other hand, the Senate Minority Floor leader contended that the proposal is unnecessary as there is already a government agency which regulates Philippine sports such as the Games and Amusement Board. Senator Pia Cayetano on the other hand, suggested that the Games and Amusement Board should augment its budget to focus on Pacquio’s concern about retiring boxers not getting benefits. To this writer however, it is quite unfortunate that the Senate had to focus on this concern when the entire country and our people are suffering from the ever silent enemy which affects the people’s daily life. The proposed Pl50 million appropriation could go a long way in terms of food, clothing and housing needs of our people. It is felt that the Lower House of Congress should appropriate the needed measure and for the Senate to concur the same even at the level of the Bicameral Committee to fast tract the measure.
TRIVIA:
Belated birthday greetings to our daughter Gg who celebrated her birthday anniversary last May 25 (Weds). She works in Congress as the Chief of Staff of Congressman Jack Duavet of the 1st District of Rizal. She is the incumbent President of all Chiefs of Staff of each congressmen. As Deputy Speaker, Congressman Duavet is at the same time the care taker of the 1st District of Camarines Sur as a result of the demise of Congresswoman- spouse of former congressman Rolando Andaya. Jr.
Belated condolence to the family of the late Dave Dollano who recently crossed the Great Beyond. Dave and I worked together at the then DZRN where I used to have a Sunday 7:00am commentary program sponsored by the Cocofed. We will certainly miss him.
Belated condolence also to our Auntie-in-law Pureta Oreta who also passed away in USA. Her remains lies in wake at their residence in US and her enterment is scheduled this coming Saturday. Likewise belated condolence to my sister-in-law who likewise passed away last week.
QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:
“LET US DEDICATE OURSELVES TO WHAT THE GREEKS WROTE SO MANY YEARS AGO: TO TAME THE SAVAGES OF MAN AND MAKE GENTLE THE LIFE OF THE WORLD.” - ROBERT F. KENNEDY
FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:
“HE WHO KEEPS THE LAW CONTROLS HIS IMPULSES; HE WHO IS PERFECT IN FEAR OF THE LORD HAS WISDOM” -SIRACH 22:1