Pacquiao gets well-deserved rest

MANILA, Philippines – Yesterday was a relatively easy day for Manny Pacquiao.

From a very hectic schedule Friday following his return from a devastating win over Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas, the Filipino boxing superstar had enough time to recharge his batteries.

Despite the cancellation of the traditional motorcade and his visit to Malacañang because of a poor weather forecast, Pacquiao had his hands full on his first day back home.

From the airport, he visited the Quiapo Church, dropped by at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and had lunch at the San Miguel Corp. headquarters.

A meeting with PLDT-Smart chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, a mini-concert at the SM Mall of Asia and dinner with executives of his media partner Solar Entertainment made his day.

According to Team Pacquiao member Jake Joson, Pacquiao was in his The Renaissance suite in Makati by 10 p.m.

Scheduled for tomorrow are the motorcade in and around Metro Manila and the courtesy call on President Arroyo.

Pacquiao should be in his hometown Tuesday or Wednesday when another huge welcome awaits him in Saranggani Province.

“He said he slept well – probably his best sleep since the day he beat Hatton,” said Joson, adding that first thing in the morning Pacquiao asked to be brought to Manila.

There he visited the old L&M Gym where he used to train, and is now being converted into an apartment/dormitory. He stayed there for some time, then took off.

“It was an unannounced visit and as expected he was mobbed,” said Joson.

Pacquiao enjoyed his lunch at the Harbour View restaurant owned by his dear friend Demi Dizon. The usual entourage came with the boxer who then went back to the hotel. – Abac Cordero