Government preparing hero welcome for Pacquiao

MANILA, Philippines – A hero’s welcome will be given by Malacañang to newly crowned World Boxing Council (WBC) superfeatherweight champ Manny Pacquiao when he returns from the United States after disposing of Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez in their “Unfinished Business” tussle at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada Saturday.

Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said it has been the practice of the Palace to accord Pacquiao a hero’s welcome after his fights overseas.

Malacañang provided such welcome in October last year after the people’s champ defeated Mexican boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera in their rematch.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said there would be a more elaborate ceremony for Pacquiao this time around because of the world title victory.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Bayani Fernando said Pacquiao’s victory provided the nation a respite from divisive politics.

He also lauded Pacquiao for his triumph, saying it was even more significant because he dedicated this to the nation.

Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday said they would only plan a motorcade for Pacquiao if he agrees to have a “hero’s welcome” in Manila.

In a statement, Lim said he would leave it up to Pacquiao to decide if he wants to hold a motorcade around the city. Lim hopes to avoid the repeat of last October’s incident that left many Manileños disappointed. After rushing preparations for the prized boxer’s arrival, they were informed that Pacquiao would not attend the parade because of “prior commitments.”

“The city government will be glad and ready to oblige should any coordination be made with City Hall by Pacquiao’s camp.”

The 78-year-old mayor said that if Manila City Hall receives foreign dignitaries, all the more should they welcome with open arms a Filipino who has given pride to the country.   

He also assured that should the General Santos native finally decide to hold a parade around the city, he would not be accompanied by any politician or city hall official.

“He (Pacquiao) will be mounting the float so he could savor the victory that only he worked very hard for.”

Pacquiao’s bout against Mexican slugger Marquez at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas titled “Unfinished Business” was shown live via telecast and free in six different venues in Manila.  

Pacquiao is the first Asian to win three titles in three different divisions. He won the WBC flyweight title and the International Boxing Federation (IBF) super bantamweight crown. He also won Peoples and Ring Magazine featherweight titles.  – With Evelyn Macairan