Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire was honored as the “Boxer of the Year” at a “Flash” Elorde event commemorating the boxing great’s 78th birthday. Donaire, who will fight against South African Simpiwe Vetyeka this May, was handed a replica of Elorde’s championship belt. He said he is determined to snatch the WBA featherweight title from Vetyeka. Also awarded as Boxers of the Year were former world champion Merlito Sabillo, IBF junior flyweight champion Johnriel Casimero, and WBO junior flyweight champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes. -- Mornings@ANC, March 27, 2014.