By Ronnie Nathanielsz

Philippine lightweight champion Fernando Montilla who is certain to be stripped of his title after he tested positive for a banned substance and fought in Thailand without the necessary approval of the Games and Amusements Board will need at least six months rehabilitation.

GAB doctor Radentor Viernes told Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today that Montilla was ‘really positive” for an illegal drug which was confirmed by the Department of Health. The findings would be submitted to the GAB board headed by chairman Eric Buhain who had earlier indicated Montilla would be stripped of his title and would not be given a license.

Dr. Viernes said Montilla will have to “undergo rehabilitation for six months and then we will check him again and if it turns out negative” his case will be re-studied before Montilla is granted a license.

Last week Montilla was reportedly looking for matchmaker Bong Obero who got him the fight in Thailand where he surrendered in  the second round against a world-rated Thai but was not paid the measly $1,000 purse and was left at the Bangkok airport without any money.

Chairman Buhain promised he would investigate the actions of Obero who had earlier been blacklisted by the GAB and has no license.