Five world champs lead Elorde awards

MANILA, Philippines - Five Filipino world champions, led by WBO and WBC super bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr.,  will receive  professional boxing’s highest accolade in the biggest gathering of Filipino world, international and national champions during the 13th Gabriel “Flash” Elorde Memorial Awards tomorrow at the Sofitel Hotel.

Donaire, who won all his four world title matches in stunning fashion in 2012, will be awarded the Flash Elorde Memorial Belt, the highest distinction to be awarded to a Filipino boxing champion in ceremonies also commemorating the 78th birth anniversary of Flash Elorde, the longest-reigning world junior lightweight champion (1960-67).

The other awardees are WBO/WBA flyweight king Brian Viloria, WBO light flyweight titlist Donnie Nietes, WBC flyweight king Sonny Boy Jaro and IBF light flyweight ruler Johnriel Casimero.

International and Philippine champions of Class 2012 will also be feted in the Elorde Banquet of Champions hosted by the Elorde family led by the legend’s wife Laura.

On hand to present the awards is guest of honor and speaker Manny Pacquiao. Masters of ceremonies are Liza Elorde and Ted Lerner.

The event, staged by the Johnny Elorde International Management, is sponsored by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Cobra Energy Drink, Contour Splinting Services, Sofitel Hotel and Sanicare.