GAB to push free CT scan for boxers

THE GAMES and Amusements Board (GAB) will push for free brain scanning services for professional boxers through the Department of Health (DoH).

“We are already setting an appointment with the DOH to discuss this initiative. Hopefully we can achieve this because this would be a big help for our boxers,” said GAB chairman Abraham Kahlil Mitra, adding that he also plans to request President Rodrigo Duterte to support this initiative.

Usually, a computed tomography (CT) scan is required by the GAB for the boxers before their fight. A manager pays P5,000 for every CT scan.

GAB, however, is also thinking of requiring managers to give all boxers an annual MRI, which is worth three times the CT scan cost.

After Mitra took over as chairman, GAB has made a lot of innovations based on its consultations from around the country.

This year, GAB has started the adoption of a new GAB License Renewal System based on birth date, to make it simpler and easier for license holders to renew.

Boxing bouts are also now being videorecorded by GAB personnel to ensure the review and decision over complaints filed before the GAB regarding a particular fight are properly rendered.

“At the same time, the video is used by GAB to monitor and evaluate the performance of ring officials assigned during the

event,” said Mitra.

GAB is also finalizing the Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Professional Boxing in the Philippines and hopes to release it next month.

GAB has also developed its own website and a Facebook page so that it can easily inform the stakeholders of its programs and activities.

Mitra said GAB has also stopped collecting one per cent from the boxer’s purse since March in compliance with the recommendation of the Department of Budget and Management. PNA