Barangay Bulacao Hosts Thrilling 'Binukbuokay sa Talisay' Boxing Event
Last week, the typically quiet corner of Barangay Bulacao in Talisay City erupted with energy as it hosted the "Binukbuokay sa Talisay" boxing promotion, organized by Chao Sy Boxing promotions. For one unforgettable night, this sleepy barangay became the epicenter of local sports, drawing a crowd of several hundred spectators who packed into a concrete basketball court transformed into a makeshift arena.
A Community Gathering Under the Boxing Lights
Attendees navigated through a bustling crowd watching another show on a temporary stage to reach the boxing ring, where the atmosphere was electric. The audience included titos seated on plastic monobloc chairs, titas fanning themselves with folded programs, and teenagers eagerly recording every moment on their smartphones. This event showcased how boxing serves as a powerful community unifier in places like Bulacao, offering not just entertainment but a sense of escape and shared experience.
Main Event: Trazo vs. Jabagat in Light Flyweight Clash
The highlight of the evening was the light flyweight main event featuring Joperson Trazo (7-2, 2KOs) against Benjie Jabagat (7-2, 6KOs). Trazo, the local favorite, trained under the watchful eye of Gideon Bacus with assistance from his sons Tonton and Rashied. In contrast, Jabagat hailed from Davao and was backed by the prestigious Manny Pacquiao Promotions, setting the stage for a compelling showdown between homegrown talent and nationally recognized support.
The Fight: A Tale of Contrasting Styles and Strategy
From the opening bell, the fighters displayed distinct approaches. Jabagat, true to his aggressive reputation, charged forward with powerful intent, while Trazo opted for a more calculated boxing style, timing his opponent's advances. The action was constant and engaging, with Jabagat occasionally landing heavy right-hand punches that drew admiring gasps from the crowd. However, Trazo consistently demonstrated superior speed and precision.
As the fight progressed, Trazo began to dominate the rounds by landing cleaner, crisper punches. A strategic shift to target Jabagat's body midway through the bout paid off in the later rounds, as the durable Davao fighter showed signs of slowing down. After ten eventful rounds, both men remained on their feet, but Trazo emerged victorious via unanimous decision, cementing his status as a rising local star.
Post-Fight Reflections and Community Spirit
In a post-fight interview, Trazo revealed that he was not hurt during the match but adhered to a careful gameplan to box Jabagat cautiously, acknowledging his opponent's reputation as a dangerous knockout artist. As the crowd dispersed—some heading to an ongoing comedy show, others to enjoy beer and videoke—the event underscored boxing's deeper significance in communities like Bulacao. It serves as a sacramental escape and a testament to how beauty and triumph can emerge from humble settings and borrowed spotlights.
On nights like this, when young athletes pour their souls into a ring woven from hope and rope, everyone emerges a winner, even if only one hand is raised in victory. The event not only celebrated athletic prowess but also reinforced the vibrant spirit of local sports in the Philippines.
