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ABAP happy that PSC remains supportive of Eumir Marcial

Eumir Marcial will still get backing from the PSC. PSC-POC Media (file photo)
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines expressed gladness that Eumir Marcial will still get support from the PSC even if he decides to call it an amateur career and turn professional.

"I am happy for Eumir. Now there is no more hindrance for his desire to turn professional," ABAP president Ricky Vargas said in a statement on Monday.

Since he qualified for next year's Tokyo Olympics, the 24-year-old Marcial has received offers from top boxing promoters, including Manny Pacquiao's MP Promotions, for him to test his waters in the pro ranks.

However, these offers also led to speculations that the PSC may stop supporting the rising middleweight star as well.

But Marcial confirmed earlier Monday following a talk with Deputy Executive Director Guillermo Iroy and Commissioner Mon Fernandez that he will still be supported by the PSC, effectively quashing the rumors.

“This is the happy compromise we were looking for and now that PSC commissioner Ramon Fernandez and deputy executive director Guillermo Iroy Jr. have reportedly come out with the assurance, we are relieved. We thank Comm. Mon and Atty. Iroy for stepping up to the plate for Eumir,” ABAP secretary general Ed Picson said in a separate statement.

Vargas then assured Marcial that he will always be welcome to join the national team if he ultimately decides to not turn pro yet and give Olympic boxing one more try next year in Tokyo.

Marcial earlier said that he remains focused on finally giving the Philippines its first ever Olympic gold medal.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno