BANGKOK — Mark Ashley Fajardo fell to Thailand’s Bunjoing Sinsiri via a 0-5 shutout in the men’s 69-kilogram semifinals at the Chulalongkorn University Sports Center on Monday, Dec. 15. The Thai pugilist controlled the first two rounds with effective counter-punching, leaving Fajardo unable to mount a decisive comeback.

Despite landing several strong punches late in the bout, Fajardo ultimately settled for the bronze medal. He joins Hergie Bacyadan and Nesthy Petecio as part of the Philippine boxing contingent earning bronze in Bangkok.

Fajardo reflects on his SEA Games journey

The Talisay City, Cebu native expressed gratitude for his achievements, highlighting the challenge of competing in a preliminary round. Fajardo defeated Vietnam’s Nguyen Duc Ngoc in the prelims and Riwu Jekri in the quarterfinals before facing Sinsiri, making this his third match in the competition.

“Thankful ako kasi ang hirap kumuha ng medal lalo na sa timbang ko, nine kaming lahat. Sa lahat ng boxers ako lang ‘yung may prelims, kaya pangatlong laban ko na ito,” Fajardo said. He added, “Sobrang hirap kumuha ng medalya, kaya nagpapasalamat ako sa Panginoon,” emphasizing his respect for the sport and the medal he earned.

Philippine boxing team looks ahead

With Fajardo’s exit, the Philippines now has seven boxers still in contention for gold. Riza Pasuit, Ofelia Magno, Flint Jara, and Jay Bryan Baricuatro are guaranteed at least silver, having advanced to the semifinals, and will fight on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Aira Villegas, Weljon Mindoro, and Eumir Marcial remain in contention for a gold medal match scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 17. The Philippine boxing team aims to capitalize on its strong position as the tournament progresses toward the finals.