EX-OLYMPIAN BARRIGA TO MAKE PRO DEBUT IN CEBU JULY 30

By LITO DELOS REYES

OLYMPIAN boxer Mark Anthony Barriga, the country’s lone representative in the 2012 London Olympics, will now be making his pro debut in Cebu and not in Manila in the coming “Who’s Next?” 2 Pro Boxing Series on July 30 at the Robinsons Galleria Cebu Atrium.

Barriga’s young manager Jason Soong of Manila has now partnered with the rising boxing promotional organization OMEGA Pro Sports International (OPSI) of the International Pharmaceuticals Inc.

“Mr. Soong has partnered with Cebu’s Omega Pro Sports International for Barriga’s first pro appearance,” said OPSI Vice President for Promotions Chad Canares.

Team Barriga also composed of chief trainer Joven Jimenez is excited to fly to Cebu for Mark’s debut as a professional. His opponent will soon be announced.

“We have full trust and confidence in OMEGA Pro Sports International in promoting Mark,” said Soong.

“If all goes well, we will be doing more of this in the future with OPSI not just with Barriga but with our other fighters as well,” he added.

The 23-year old Barriga, a native of Panabo City, Davao del Norte, was supposed to make his pro debut in Manila last month. But the bout was cancelled after his opponent was found to have a hepatitis.

OPSI President Pio Paulo Castillo said that they are thrilled to have a boxer of Barriga’s caliber.

“We at OPSI are always working to improve and make the best possible shows we can give the fans of boxing in the country,” said Castillo.

He said that having fighters like Barriga in their shows “will not only help their promotion but also the sport as well.”

Canares, on the other hand, thanked Team Barriga for giving their confidence in OPSI.

“We will do our best to make this an encouraging experience to remember not just for Team Barriga but to the fight fans who support OPSI and its fighters.” said Canares.

Barriga has brought honor to the Philippines in winning in international competitions including a gold medal at the 2013 SEA Games in Nepyidaw, Myanmar and a bronze in the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea.

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