MANILA, Philippines — It was supposed to be a big boxing match between two big names — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Nicolas Torre III and Davao City acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte. But on Sunday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, only one of them showed up.
Gen. Torre Stands Alone in the Ring
General Torre arrived, geared up, and ready to fight. But Baste? He didn’t show up. Because of this, Torre was declared the winner by default—meaning he won because the other fighter didn’t come.
After the event, Torre was clear:
“I have more important things to do. This isn’t worth my time anymore.”
Torre said he worked hard to prepare for the event, and many others helped too. He felt Baste’s behavior didn’t deserve more attention.
“Let’s leave him be in his world,” he added.
Baste’s Podcast Response
A few days earlier, Baste spoke about the boxing challenge through his “Basta Dabawenyo Podcast.” He said he would only agree to the fight if President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would order drug tests for all elected officials, including himself and Torre.
He later released a longer video saying he could actually fight Torre on Tuesday, Wednesday, or any other day—but by then, Torre had moved on.
Fight for a Cause
Even without Baste, the match still had meaning. It wasn’t just about boxing — it was about helping others. Torre announced that the event raised over ₱16 million, which will go to flood victims.
So even if there was no real fight in the ring, Torre still called it a success. And when asked about any future match with Baste?
He simply said:
“I won’t be responding to him anymore.”
