MANILA, Philippines ? (UPDATE) After a confidence-building stint in Cuba, five Filipino boxers will fly to Italy and represent the national team in the World Amateur Boxing Championship.

Ed Picson, executive director of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines, announced Tuesday that Beijing Olympian Harry Tañamor would banner the team against the best amateur boxers from across the globe during the September 1-12 tournament in Milan.

Joining Tañamor (light flyweight) in Italy are 2006 Asian Games gold medalist Joan Tipon (bantamweight), featherweight Charly Suarez, lightweight Joegin Ladon and light welter Genebert Basadre.

Picson said the selection process was headed by head coach Pat Gaspi after Abap sent nine boxers for a two-week training in Havana, Cuba bankrolled by the Philippine Sports Commission.

According to Picson, the five boxers chosen by Gaspi were impressive after clashing head-on with the Cuban, Venezuelan and Brazilian national teams throughout their stay in Cuba.

?We feel honored with the opportunity to support our boxers in the world championship,'' said Picson. ?We hope our humble contribution to this national effort will bring honor and pride to our people.?

Picson explained the lineup was formed after a series of thorough deliberations by the coaching staff. He added the boxers had gone through a stringent elimination process, involving local and international tournaments.