Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte announced he will not attend the boxing match with Philippine National Police Chief Nicolas Torre III scheduled for Sunday, July 27, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, citing “family day” as the reason. In a pre-taped podcast aired on Saturday night, Duterte stated, “Tuesday or Wednesday or any weekday” would be preferable. The match, initially proposed by Torre as a 12-round charity event to aid Metro Manila flood victims, was set for 9 a.m. on July 27. Duterte expressed skepticism about the charity aspect, questioning, “If you really just want a fight, why do you even need the floods for charity?” He clarified that he did not formally challenge Torre but merely wanted to confront him physically, stating, “If you’re a man, let’s fight. I am not challenging you, stupid. You’re just as stupid as the journalist that asked you.” Duterte suggested the event was a media-driven “smokescreen” or “diversionary issue.” He added that Marcos Jr. and other officials should first undergo hair follicle drug tests as a condition for the match. Torre, in a media interview on Thursday, confirmed the venue’s readiness for Sunday’s event, noting that sponsors had already pledged donations for flood relief regardless of Duterte’s participation. Duterte reiterated his availability on weekdays, advising Torre to use the extra time to practice.
