Giemel Magramo is the latest in a family of prizefighters

Before the Pacquiaos, Donaires and Sonsonas took pride in representing our flag in the sport of boxing, there were the Magramos. The family is composed of no-nonsense, all guts, face-first brawlers, earning them the monicker, "Skull and Bones Family.” A long bloodline of professional boxers that started in 1989 is still alive and kicking up to this day. The latest entrant to the family's boxing tradition is Giemel Magramo, a 19-year-old pug from Parañaque, Metro Manila.

Giemel (9-0, 6 KOs) is the fifth professional prizefighter in the family, picking up from where his father and uncles left off. Before Giemel, there were Ronnie, Melvin, Ric and Alvin, who combine for 106 wins (52 KOs), 46 defeats and 9 draws. Though not as popular in the general public as other boxing clans, the Magramos are known and respected in the close boxing circle, having previously fought for local, regional and world titles. Giemel turning to professional boxing was definitely not a surprise. Boxing is his choice and passion, after all.

Giemel knew how to box as early as 4-years-old. He knew how to fight even before he knew how to read. He was under no obligation to get acquainted with the sport but after watching his father train and fight for so many years since he was a kid, it lit his passion for boxing.

"My father [brought me to the gym], I saw his training and movements so I got enticed to doing it," said Giemel. "I don't just watch his fights, I even step inside the ring when he wins."

Giemel started competing in the amateurs when he was 11. Six years later, he found himself inside the squared circle fighting for prize money. He had a proper education growing up, being able to finish high school, unlike many professional boxers. He could have went to college and eventually landed a steady paying job, but he feels that his chance for a better life and success lies in boxing.

Add the familiar tale of poverty, hardship and the need to sustain day-to-day expenses, and it makes much easier to understand his decision. Though until he makes it big, Giemel is stuck with the standard industry rate of P1000 ($23) per round for professional boxers in the country.

"I think I have a bright future in boxing. I want to help my parents. Compared to studies, I like boxing more," says Giemel who is not totally closing his door on college education. "If I become a champion, who knows, I might continue with my studies."

And just like most, if not all boxers, Giemel's goal is to win a major world title, something that's proven to be elusive for the family. Before that though, he has to take care of his first 10-round fight at the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañaque, this Saturday.

"I'm ready [to fight 10 rounds], it's what I've been training for. It is my dream to capture a world title, help my family and people in need. I need to focus and train more. When it's time for training, I train so when it's come to fight, I fight. I never think that I'll lose a fight." - AMD, GMA News


JM Siasat is a boxing journalist based in Manila, Philippines. He can be reached at jmsiasat@ymail.com. Follow him on Twitter @JMSiasat