The alleged mastermind of the local syndicate preying on hungry Filipino boxers who wish to fight abroad, has been apprehended.
Games and Amusements Board chairman Eric Buhain yesterday announced that Ranilo Terania, alias Bong Obero, was caught in Ermita, Manila by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation last April 12.
There were reports, however, that Terania has posted bail.
Terania is being accused of sending young and desperate Filipino boxers abroad, mainly in Thailand, to fight even without the knowledge of and clearance from the appropriate agency like GAB.
This illegal practice claimed the life of Filipino flyweight Lito Sisnorio who died in Thailand last March 31, or the day after he was knocked out by former world champion Chatchai Sasakul.
Sisnorio, 24, was virtually fed to the lion and was totally outclassed. Hours after absorbing his third knockout in just 2 months, the Filipino collapsed, underwent surgery and died the following day in a Thai hospital.
A full-blown investigation was immediately launched by the GAB and its Thai counterpart. In the process, Buhain ordered a “no-travel” policy on all Filipino boxers to Thailand.
Thai matchmaker Panya Prachakorn, who has alleged links with Terania, is also under investigation in Thailand.
Buhain said Terania was apprehended in Ermita, Manila by NBI agents last April 12, and that Thai authorities have already been informed of the development.
“This is a win for us. And I’m very happy. I’d like to commend the NBI for acting swiftly. But this is just step one. Charges will have to be filed by the Department of Justice, and these persons will have to face them,” said Buhain.
“Wala tayong sasantuhin dito (We will spare no one). Dapat mapugutan ng ulo ang sindikatong ito (We must cut the head off this syndicate),” added Buhain, of the first ring death under his watch.
“Maliit na sindikato per malalim ang ugat (A small syndicate with deep roots),” said the former champion swimmer of those making a living at the expense of Filipino fighter who are being pitted against fighters of greater skills.
