Torre vs. Baste: Charity Boxing Match Set Amid Uncertainties and Conditions

Torre vs. Baste: Charity Boxing Match Set Amid Uncertainties and Conditions

MANILA, July 27, 2025 — The long‑anticipated charity boxing match between Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III and Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte reached a dramatic turning point as the event was slated for this morning—but the challenger may be absent.

🔎 Background and Stakes

What began as a provocative online dare escalated into a public spectacle when Duterte challenged Torre to a literal “suntukan” in his Basta Dabawenyo podcast. Torre accepted, framing it as a charity event to support flood victims across Luzon and Davao after recent storms displaced thousands.

Preparations escalated quickly: a boxing ring was installed at Rizal Memorial Coliseum, complete with judges’ tables and medical staff facilities approved by the Games and Amusement Board (GAB). Meanwhile, PNP buses and officers swarmed surrounding streets—Vito Cruz and Adriatico—creating heavy traffic and prompting motorists to take alternate routes.

🎟 Logistics and Security

Ticket prices ranged from P100 (upper box) to P5,400 (floor), with primary sales marketed through PNP channels. Security was tight; the PNP deployed personnel early at the venue to manage crowd control, safety, and operational logistics.

Underlining the charitable commitment, sponsors pledged to convert proceeds into aid for communities affected by flooding—even if Duterte fails to appear.

🔄 Challenge Recalibrated

But as of the evening before the fight, Duterte unexpectedly declared he would not attend the Sunday bout, citing a “family day” and scheduling conflicts. Instead, he said he would be available on Tuesday or Wednesday if Torre still wished to proceed.

Further complicating matters, Duterte attached a condition: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and all elected officials must undergo hair follicle drug testing if he is to proceed. Torre has not replied to that demand, preferring to focus on the charitable angle of the event .

💬 Torre’s Position

From Camp Crame, Torre has remained resolute. He noted that he will be present at the Coliseum regardless, emphasizing the match’s legitimacy and public messaging. He also reminded audiences that the primary purpose is to help flood‑affected Filipinos—not politics or personal vendettas.

🔍 Public Sentiment

Observers on social media and Reddit shared mixed reactions. Some criticized the spectacle as a political show, others expressed concern over Torre’s age and fitness based on training footage, describing him as “slow” without a strong punch.

✅ Final Word

With Torre reportedly at the venue and the ring complete, the event is poised to proceed—whether or not Duterte shows up. Should he remain absent, undercard boxing matches featuring PNP teams are expected to entertain the crowd, while sponsors commit to delivering aid in lieu of live proceeds.

Ultimately, what started as a challenge has become a high‑profile event tinged with uncertainty, conditional demands, and competing narratives—but one that could yield real relief for disaster‑affected communities, if carried out.