The Palace on Sunday lauded Manny Pacquiao despite losing the Welterweight belt to American boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr., in a boxing match in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Filipinos can hold their heads up high: our national pride, Congressman Manny Pacquiao, did us all proud when he stood his ground against one of the best boxers of our time, Floyd Mayweather,” said Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.
Coloma also reiterated President Benigno Aquino III’s thanks to Pacquiao “for serving as an inspiration to every Filipino in overcoming the daily challenges in the pursuit of a better life and future.”
“We will continue to be proud that we have a People’s Champ in Manny Pacquiao who exemplifies skill, strength and courage. He is a worthy exemplar that the Filipino is able to compete in the global arena — for as long as there is a level playing field,”
“Hopefully, Manny may now be able to devote more time with his family and that he is able to maintain good health that will serve him in good stead in all his future endeavors,” Coloma addded.
Mayweather had beaten Pacquiao after 12 rounds of boxing at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. All three judges were unanimous in giving Mayweather higher points with the score of: 118-110, 116-112, 116-112.
The unbeaten Mayweather now have a record of 48 wins, while Pacquiao now had 57 wins and six losses.
The fight is an unification of the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Council, and World Boxing Organization Welterweight belt. PND (ag) |