In a significant move to strengthen professional boxing ties between the Philippines and Thailand, the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) and the Professional Boxing Association of Thailand (PAT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 25, 2026, at World Siam Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
The agreement establishes a framework for closer cooperation in regulating professional boxing, promoting boxer safety, facilitating international competition, and enhancing the integrity of the sport in both nations.
👉 Summary of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
The MOU was signed by:
• Angel P. Bautista, Commissioner for Administrative and Finance of the Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB)
• Naris Singhawungcha, Chairman of the Boxing Section of the Professional Boxing Association of Thailand (PAT)
👉 Key Provisions
• Exchange of official boxing records and the development of accurate rankings for each country's professional boxers.
• Mutual recognition of fight documentation, including fight permits, fighter record certificates, and official fight result certificates for overseas contests.
• Assistance with visas and government documentation for boxers, officials, and other participants involved in international boxing events.
• Educational cooperation, including workshops and training opportunities for boxing commissions and ring officials across Asia.
• Promotion of boxer health and safety, including medical screenings, pre- and post-fight evaluations, commission doctors at events, and thorough review of fighter records to help prevent mismatches.
• Fair and standardized bout management, with both commissions working toward uniform rules and equitable conditions for professional boxing.
• Licensing enforcement, ensuring only properly licensed and authorized boxers compete internationally while maintaining communication regarding newly licensed fighters.
Immediate implementation, with the agreement remaining in effect until mutually terminated by both parties.
👉 Significance
The agreement represents a major milestone in regional boxing cooperation.
By fostering greater collaboration between GAB and PAT, the MOU is expected to improve regulatory standards, enhance boxer safety, streamline cross-border competition, and strengthen the growth and credibility of professional boxing in both the Philippines and Thailand.
Present during the MOU signing were GAB Boxing Chief Rodil E. Manaog as well as Royal Thai Army Major General Damrong Simakajornboon, Executive Secretary of the Professional Boxing Association of Thailand (PAT).
The author of this news is veteran boxing reporter Carlos Costa, email: carlos@philboxing.com
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