The Pusong Palaban spirit was alive in Bohol as the 2026 Philippine Convention for Boxing Ring Officials, led by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), wrapped up as a total success!
Running from September 10 to today, Saturday, September 12, 2026, this three-day bayanihan effort brought together top local and global boxing figures to elevate the nation's officiating standards.
Heavyweights in the House!
The GAB 2026 Bohol Convention features an elite lineup-up of boxing leadership and officiating legends:
GAB & Regional Leaders: GAB Chairman Atty. Francisco J. Rivera, GAB Boxing Chief Rodil Manaog, APPBRO President Gil R. Co, PBO-CV President-Elect Edgar Olalo, PBO-CV’s Nic Banal, and IBF President Darryl Peoples (New Jersey), GAB Cebu Chief Jimmy Donton and MINPROBA Ring Officials President Alberto "Brembot" Dulalas (Davao), and PBO-CV Acting President Rolando "Lando" Mendoza (CEBU).
World-Class Boxing Officials: International judge Steve Weisfeld (USA) and legendary referee Tony Weeks (Las Vegas), alongside referee/judge Koji Tanaka (Japan) and respected Pinoy ring veterans as the beloved and much-respected Antonio "Tony" Pesons (Cebu) and "El Maestro" Silvestre Abainza (Manila).
Quick Recap & Live Bakbakan
Day 1 (Sept 10): Steve Weisfeld led intensive judging sessions and testing for APPBRO, PBO-CV, and MINPROBA officials.
Day 2 (Sept 11): Tony Weeks spearheaded practical referee training. GAB also integrated a Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) seminar, followed by official boxer weigh-ins.
Day 3 (Sept 12 - Today): Delegates enjoyed a Bohol Island Tour before heading into the official Rules Meeting and tonight's grand LIVE BOXING EVENT (4:00 PM – 9:00 PM), where newly sharpened officials take the ring!
Para sa Bayan, Para sa Boxing!
The author is veteran boxing writer Carlos Costa in 🇵🇭 Cebu, carlos@philbixing.com
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