THE people?s world featherweight champion Manny ?The Destroyer? Pacquiao yesterday got an additional source of strength and inspiration in his quest to become the greatest Filipino boxer ever after receiving yesterday the illustrious Ring Magazine featherweight championship belt.
The 25-year-old Pacquiao, who has been literally cannonized as saint by boxing pundits around the globe following his brilliant 11-round demolition of the fallen Mexican hero Marco Antonio Barrera last year, received the ornate belt from Ring Magazine editor-in-chief Nigel Collins in the presence of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at the Malaca?ang Palace.
A euphoric Pacquiao was grinning from ear to ear after receiving the belt in a simple rites, which was also attended by First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, benefactor Manila Mayor Lito Atienza and Manila-based American feature writer Ted Lerner who organized Collins’ Philippine visit supported by PAGCOR, Viva Sports and Reli Tours and Travel Agency.
