LEYTE — Ormoc City recently became the center of sports development in Eastern Visayas by hosting a crucial referee-judges and coaches seminar. The two-day event took place from October 24 to 25, 2026, at the Ormoc City Boxing Gym and Champions' Dormitory.
Elevating Regional Boxing Standards
Organized by the Local Government Unit of Ormoc City in partnership with the Association of Boxing Alliance of the Philippines, the initiative aims to strengthen the technical capabilities of aspiring local coaches and officials. It focuses on standardizing officiating rules and enhancing overall training methodologies.
The program addresses the growing need for certified professionals as the sport continues to gain popularity among the youth. By establishing a structured learning environment, the city ensures that grassroots boxing programs are led by knowledgeable and qualified individuals who prioritize athlete welfare.
Expert Guidance from ABAP
The seminar featured a powerhouse lineup of resource speakers from the national boxing association. ABAP President Jan Marcus Manalo and Secretary General Sebastian Ripoll led the delegation, sharing valuable insights on the latest industry standards and administrative protocols.
They were joined by National Coach Donald Walter Abnett and International Referee Judge Jonathan Jimenez, who provided practical demonstrations and technical lectures. Their combined decades of experience offered the participants a rare opportunity to learn from the sport's top experts.
Empowering Local Aspirants
Participants from various cities and municipalities across Region VIII eagerly engaged in the comprehensive training modules. The curriculum covered essential topics ranging from proper scoring techniques and ring management to advanced coaching strategies for athlete development.
Attendees also participated in practical simulations to refine their decision-making skills under pressure. This hands-on approach ensures that they gain practical knowledge they can immediately apply in their respective communities to nurture future talents.
Building a Stronger Sports Future
The successful collaboration highlights the local government's strong commitment to sports tourism and youth development. By investing in the education of coaches and officials, Ormoc City is laying a solid foundation for a more competitive and vibrant boxing landscape.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to establish the city as a premier hub for athletic excellence. Local officials believe that upgrading the knowledge of trainers and referees will ultimately produce world-class boxers who can represent the region nationally.
Officials emphasized that maintaining high officiating standards is crucial for athlete safety and fair competition. The initiative is expected to inspire more aspiring boxers to pursue the sport, knowing they will be guided and evaluated by well-trained professionals.
This comprehensive approach ensures that the sport grows in a healthy and sustainable manner across the region. With continued support from both the public and private sectors, the future of Philippine boxing looks incredibly promising, starting at the grassroots level.
