IS ROLANDO GERONGCO BEING EXPLOITED DOWN UNDER?
By Salven L. Lagumbay
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 28 Aug 2007
Not a few concerns have been raised concerning Australia-based Filipino fighter Rolando Gerongco, who has been campaigning abroad in search of the proverbial greener pasture.
The Leyte-raised Gerongco is just one of countless numbers of Filipino fighters who started out as a good prospect, only to end up a virtual punching bag as journeyman fighter abroad.
Before leaving for Australia 1n 2004, Gerongco had a record of 12 wins and 7 losses, which would have been reason enough for him to just look for another job outside boxing.
Alas, Gerongco went to Australia accompanied by a Filipino manager, but instead of hanging up his gloves, continued to fight on as a favorite whipping boy for Australian prospects.
Gerongco's former manager Rex 'Wakee' Salud even raised a howl of protest, stating that his former ward had not been allowed to return home by the Filipino manager who hired his services. Worse, Salud found out later he was no longer the manager for Gerongco, and Filipino Dido Bohol was now the new handler.
Since arriving in Australia, Gerongco has racked up only one win against 19 losses in 20 fights, and again, questions have been raised if Gerongco is indeed fighting for greener pasture or just falling as a victim to some heartless organizers and handlers.
"Somebody should save that boy. He's been having difficulties in his speech. That's a sure sign of possible damage," said a source who requested anonymity.
In the meantime, Gerongco is set to fight on two cards, one on August 31 and the other on October 20 against Australian prospects Dean Byrne and Matthew Paulley.
Will somebody stand up for Gerongco to protect him from further punishment and possible life-threatening damage?
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Salven L. Lagumbay.
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