Pacquiao seeks creation of boxing commission

MANILA (2nd Update, 1:55 p.m.) -- Filipino boxing icon Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao has filed House Bill (HB) 6409, seeking the creation of the Philippine Boxing Commission (PBC), an agency that would provide incentives and benefits to professional boxers.

"Our country has produced World Class Boxing legends like the great Gabriel 'Flash' Elorde, and recently the likes of Nonito Donaire Jr., Donnie Nietes, Brian Villoria and the Velasco brothers," Pacquiao said.

The boxing champ noted that some boxers go into retirement deprived of any kind of financial assistance or access to medical care.

"Most often, we hear many of our boxing heroes who had brought honor and prestige to our country retire without pension benefits," he added.

Pacquiao said his proposed law would provide comprehensive health care benefits, alternative livelihood program, a system of life insurance, reliable death benefits, and other benefits for all boxers who competed and won in international boxing events.

"Boxers risk their lives and limbs to excel in this sport. Some meet their untimely death during fights due to lack of safety and emergency medical services. It is about time that we give due attention and consideration to this sport and especially to our professional boxing champions," he said.

Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao.(Sunnex file)

Under the bill, all professional boxers shall be enrolled in the National Health Insurance Program (PhilHealth) to enable them to receive and avail of an adequate package of personal health services including, but not limited to, in-patient hospital care, out-patient care, emergency and transfer services, and other supplementary health benefits. The cost of premium contribution and monthly contribution shall be shouldered by the agency.

The PBC shall also establish an alternative livelihood training program and referral system for retired or injured international boxing champions.

The bill also provides for lump sum death benefit of P50,000 to cover funeral services and other expenses of a boxer.

A lifetime retirement pension of P15,000 monthly shall also be accorded to professional boxers who won in any world title duly sanctioned by recognized international sporting organizations and bodies.

HB 6409, "An act creating the Philippine Boxing Commission thereby strengthening the country's standing in boxing sports, ensuring the welfare of Filipino boxers, and providing funds therefor," is now pending before the House committee on games and amusements.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao's next title fight is set on November 10 but his promoters have yet to name his opponent. (Kathrina Alvarez/Sunnex)