The Noy Pacing Flores Boxing Gym in Mandaue City was alive with action last Saturday, December 20, 2025, as Marvin Villafuerte delivered a masterclass to headline the "Quest for Champions 18" amateur boxing card.
Main Event Showcase and Key Victories
In the featured bout, Villafuerte, a proud fighter from Ibabao, Mandaue City, systematically outboxed Jeffrey Gallo of Abra. His superior technique and ring control earned him a clear unanimous decision victory from the judges' scorecards, cementing his status as one of Cebu's promising amateur talents.
The event showcased a deep card of local prospects. Paulino Monterola, Geokent Alburo, and John Rio Joren all secured convincing unanimous decision wins over Ernest Quiseo, Wildebrando Ceniza, and Ramsey Dequillo, respectively. Geram Pepito and David Val Quiñahan had to work harder, each edging out their opponents by split decision against Clemjay Pardo and John Daryll Initan.
Best Bout and Best Boxer Honors
The fight between Jemrex Boncales and Rick Rick Baninting was so thrilling it was awarded Best Bout of the Event. Boncales ultimately prevailed by unanimous decision after an exhilarating exchange.
However, the top individual honor went to Junel Matbagon. After securing a hard-fought majority decision win against Jaycob Pedrano, Matbagon's outstanding performance was recognized as he was crowned the Best Boxer of Quest for Champions 18.
Other results from a busy night included:
- Nathan Betizar defeating Roldan Getalada.
- Paulvin Saplidan narrowly getting past Junmar Suico.
Organizers Behind the Success
The successful amateur boxing show was orchestrated by a team of boxing luminaries. Decorated coach Brix Flores led the organization, receiving valuable support from former boxer Neil John Tabanao and former world champion Morris East. They were joined by Australian promoter Gary Connolly, Visminda Pitogo, Carlo Pesons, and Cebu Provincial Board Member Olin Seno.
The event highlighted the vibrant grassroots boxing scene in Cebu, providing a crucial platform for amateur pugs to test their skills and gain experience in front of a passionate local crowd.
