‘GAB is not to blame’

It’s not the fault of the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) if fights featuring younger Filipino internationalists don’t make it on Philippine television, unlike before.

This was the clarification forwarded by Fritz Gaston over the weekend. Gaston, who made a name in the Philippine Basketball Association in the 80s, used to head the Boxing Division of the GAB.

He texted: “Good morning, Sir. For your information, I’m no longer with the GAB. I’ve been replaced by a Davao barangay captain supporter of President Duterte.”

Can I do something?

“It seems you’re off again regarding (tele) viewing of boxing. This is not under GAB.”

Who should be in charge?

“This is with the television networks, like ABS-CBN (tie-up with Pinoy Pride) and Pacquiao with GMA-7. As individuals we try to assist these promoters with the networks.”

What’s the score?

“As early as five years ago, I tried to hook up Bebot Elorde with Solar Sports to televise the bouts of his boxers abroad, and recently with TV 5. Both did not materialize. GAB Chairman Baham Mitra, in his third month in office, met with Smart, again nothing.”

Have you explored other possibilities?

“We even brought up this lack (of coverage) in our last congressional appearance.”

What happened?

“One lawmaker even suggested they would ask these networks to air even portions of these fights on regular basis.”

Too bad nothing came out of your sincere efforts.

Anyway, thank you for the good things you’ve tried to do for Philippine boxing. At the same time, accept my apologies if, as you said, “I was off again.” That suggestion for coverage of future Pinoy boxing stars came from street and marketplace fight fans. I pray your successor would be able to do something.

Hope you find fulfillment in your next undertaking. Keep punchin’ Sir.