PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Humorously cited Philippine National Police (PNP) General Nicolas Torre III for his “boxing win” during his fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) Monday, July 28, 2025.

As he commended Filipino athletes such as Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, and EJ Obiena, a laughing Marcos mentioned Torre, who was declared the winner by default in a charity boxing match against Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte.

Marcos also recognized the Philippine Curling Team for winning a gold medal at the Asian Winter Games.

“Ating mga kabataan ay maagang namumulat sa sport. Humuhusay at tumataas ang kumpiyansa. Sumusunod sila sa yapak ng ating mga kampeon at world-class na mga atleta tulad nina Senator Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, Caloy Yulo, Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, EJ Obiena, at Alex Eala; ang Paralympians natin na sina Jerrold Mangliwan, Cendy Asusano, Angel Mae Otom, at Ernie Gawilan,” Marcos said.

(Our youth are being introduced to sports at an early age. They are improving and growing in confidence. They are following in the footsteps of our champions and world-class athletes like Senator Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, Caloy Yulo, Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, EJ Obiena, and Alex Eala; as well as our Paralympians Jerrold Mangliwan, Cendy Asusano, Angel Mae Otom, and Ernie Gawilan.)

"Isama na rin natin 'yung bago nating kampeon na si PNP Chief Nick Torre," he added.

(Let’s also include our newest champion, PNP Chief Nick Torre.)

The crowd cheered for Torre, who stood and acknowledged the shoutout.

Torre organized the charity boxing event after accepting Duterte’s challenge to a fistfight.

Even though Duterte did not show up, the event raised P20 million worth of cash and in-kind donations, which will benefit families affected by recent calamities. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)