Boxer Eumir Marcial needs to concentrate on his preparations and training for the Tokyo Olympics.
This was the advice of Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino as he took note of Marcial’s gripes and sentiments on social media two weeks ago.
“I’m trying to reach out with those athletes like Marcial. Ganu’n talaga ang message ko. Focus muna tayo sa Olympics. Saka na natin pag-usapan (financial issues) after the Olympics,” said Tolentino during Tuesday’s weekly online session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association.
Two weeks ago, Marcial aired on Facebook his sentiments about the lack of financial support being received by national athletes. He felt that his monthly allowance from the Philippine Sports Commission is not enough to cover his campaign for the Tokyo Olympics.
Marcial, who spent a month training in Zamboanga City, left last Saturday to join Team Philippines in the Asian Elite Men’s and Women’s Boxing Championships, which began Tuesday in Dubai.
Seven other boxers will see action in the 27-nation event, originally set May 21 in New Delhi, which had to beg off from hosting the tournament due to a surge in COVID-19 cases in India.
Marcial, who is listed in the middleweight division, is now with teammates former world champion Josie Gabuco, Maricel dela Torre, Mark Lester Durens, Marvon Tabamo, Junmilardo Ogayre, Jere Samuel Dela Cruz and John Paul Panuayan.
Since airing his gripes, Marcial got the help of Chooks-to-Go president Ronald Mascarinas, who pledged to support to his Olympic medal quest. Basketball player Thirdy Ravena, who recently renewed his contract with the San-en NeoPhoenix team in the Japan B. League, also pitched in his aid by sending Marcial vitamins and supplements, plus a new pair of training shoes.
The 25-year-old Marcial went to his hometown on April 24, after making a successful debut as a pro against Andrew Whitfield last December 16.
Marcial visited his ailing father in Barangay Lunzuran, where he also trained.
Gerson Nietes, the designated coach of the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines, also assisted Marcial in Zamboanga City.