Nonito meets Noy at Malacañang

MANILA, Philippines - Latest boxing sensation Nonito Donaire Jr. yesterday paid a courtesy call on President Aquino at Malacañang, after he knocked out Mexican Jorge Arce in Texas last week.

“It was an honor to see and meet him. I’m so proud that he is our President. He has so many plans for our country. I’m so glad I was part of that conversation,” he told reporters in a brief interview.

Donaire also thanked Aquino for wishing him well before the fight, which he said inspired him.

The President warmly received “The Filipino Flash” at the Palace’s Music Room.

“It was just to understand when it’s best for me to start and finish. He was referring to my career and it was such a long conversation. There were so many advices. I take it and it was an amazing time for me,” he said.

A California-based Fil-Am boxer, Donaire visited the Philippines to share his victory with his fellow Filipinos.

Aquino earlier said he feels an affinity with Donaire, who dedicated one of his fights to his late mother, former President and democracy icon Corazon Aquino.

“He had yellow shorts, yellow boots, yellow gloves when my mother was sick. That’s when he dedicated the fight. I really feel an affinity with him. I hope he really achieves his dreams,” he said.

Donaire successfully defended his World Boxing Organization super bantamweight title against Mexico’s Arce.

He refused to make any comment, however, when asked if he would advise Filipino boxing champion and Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao to retire after he lost to Mexican fighter Juan Manuel Marquez.

“You saw the fight. He did great and I believe until now that he can still beat anyone at his level except for the fact that it really comes down to Jinkee, Manny,” Donaire said.

“You know it’s not about Manny, it’s about his kids, it’s about his wife, whatever their decision will be. I can only give them support,” he said.