MANILA, Philippines — Malacanang praised Senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao for his new WBO welterweight crown after his victory via unanimous decision against Jessie Vargas in Las Vegas on Sunday, November 6, and called him a “national treasure for global sports.”
A statement from the Office of the Communications Secretary, said Pacquiao’s triump “united and brought joy to our people and our nation.”
“Nagpapasalamat ang Palasyo sa hindi matatawarang suportang ipinagkaloob ng ating mga kababayan sa oras ng tagumpay at maging sa panahon ng pagkabigo ng ating mga boksingero. Once again, Manny’s triumph united and brought joy to our people and our nation. The discipline, the determination, and the hard work of our People’s Champ are truly what make him a National Treasure in Global Sports,” the Palace statement said.
Nonito Donaire’s quest to be the ‘king in the ring’ unfortunately did not materialize. This, however, would not diminish the honors he bestowed to the people and to the flag, Malacanang said.
“He remains “The Filipino Flash” with his quick hand speed and formidable punching power,” the statement said.
Malacanang also likened the Filipino boxers’ fight in the ring to the Duterte administration’s fight against illegal drugs, crime and corruption.
“The courage and grit displayed by our Filipino boxers in Las Vegas are the same qualities we must demonstrate as a nation to rid society of drugs, criminality and corruption,” it said.
“Government has been successfully waging a war on these fronts and we as a people – emulating our boxers’ toughness against all odds — must continue the strong gains as we battle towards victory. Mabuhay ang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!”
(PCO)