Well-wishers came in droves to greet Manny Pacquiao on the occasion of his 40th birthday in General Santos City on Monday.
Even on the eve of his special day, Pacquiao was neck-deep in commitments and charitable work but the boxing star still managed to work out a sweat since his Jan. 19 clash with Adrien Broner at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas is fast approaching.
But on the day of his birthday, Pacquiao took a break from roadwork and afternoon gym sessions as he continued to welcome guests not just from Mindanao but those from Manila and overseas.
Pacquiao was scheduled to host a lavish party for his family and friends late Monday with no less than President Rodrigo Duterte expected to attend. Personages from the world of the national political scene and show business were also gracing the affair.
As a treat to his guests, four vehicles, including a maroon pickup truck will be raffled off alongside motorcycles and other techy stuff, making his 40th birthday the grandest of them all.
Before relocating to General Santos City last Thursday, Pacquiao spent almost three weeks training in Manila.
On Dec. 22, Pacquiao and his team will fly to Los Angeles for the final four weeks of preparation.
The Wild Card Boxing Club of Freddie Roach is being readied to play host to Pacquiao?s return.
The last time Pacquiao fought in the US, the eight-division champion beat Jessie Vargas.
The Broner battle will mark the first time that Pacquiao will fight under the banner of a new promotional outfit.
For over ten years, Pacquiao was promoted by Hall of Famer Bob Arum of Top Rank.
Now, Pacquiao is aligned with Al Haymon, whose star-studded clientele includes Floyd Mayweather.
