MANILA, Philippines – Members of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) beamed with pride when they returned to Manila on Thursday from Los Angeles, California.

Seven boxers, including one woman pugilist, and three coaches arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport past 4 a.m. after competing in the Blue & Gold boxing tournament in Maywood, California.

Charley Suarez, brothers Victorio and Ray Saludar, Delfin Boholst and Josie Gabuco emerged as champions in the competition considered as one of the largest amateur tournaments in the United States.

Ricky Dulay and Gerson Nietes had second place finishes.

According to ABAP Executive Director Ed Picson, he is very pleased with the results of the boxers.

He added that the Blue & Gold boxing tournament also serves as preparation for the upcoming Asian Games in November the London 2012 Olympics.

The RP team arrived in the US in early August. They trained with the strength and conditioning coach of Nonito Donaire, Jr. and competed in a mini-boxing tilt at the University of San Francisco before entering the Blue & Gold tournament. – With a report from Joseph Pimentel, ABS-CBN North America News Bureau