MANILA, Philippines — In an unexpected turn of events, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Nicolas Torre III has accepted the challenge issued by Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to engage in a fistfight — but with a twist: Torre wants to turn the bout into a charity boxing match to help victims of recent typhoons and the southwest monsoon (habagat).
The challenge surfaced after Mayor Duterte aired his frustrations in a vlog, accusing the PNP chief of allegedly harassing his family. In response, Torre acknowledged the public call-out and suggested channeling the heated exchange into something productive.
“Whether he’s serious or not, let’s just put this to better use,” Torre said in a public statement. “Let’s do boxing. That’s easier to set up. Let’s do it this coming Sunday. I’ll be in Araneta [Coliseum] to set up a ring.”
Torre emphasized that all proceeds from the event should go directly to families affected by Typhoon Crising, Typhoon Dante, and recent flooding caused by the southwest monsoon. The police chief’s statement appears to be an effort to de-escalate tensions while also offering help to those in need.
As of this writing, Mayor Duterte has yet to issue a formal response to Torre’s proposal.
The public and media are now closely watching whether this high-profile exchange will indeed lead to a charity event—or if it will remain a symbolic clash between two prominent figures.
