PEOPLE across the Philippines, including President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s family were saddened by the loss of boxer Manny Pacquiao in a much-anticipated match with Mexico’s Erik “Terrible” Morales. The defeat of Pacquiao by a unanimous 12-round decision in his super featherweight showdown in Las Vegas drew a consoling response from Arroyo who had previously used the former champion as a symbol of Filipino resiliency in tough times.
“We cheer Manny as an outstanding Filipino. He sets an example of the toughness we need to surmount our trials and in fighting our way to become a strong Philippines,” Arroyo said in a statement.
“I believe in the toughness and fighting spirit of Manny Pacquiao. I am sure he will bounce back from this loss,” said Arroyo hopefully.
She congratulated both Pacquiao and Morales for a good fight.
Arroyo’s husband, Mike Arroyo, who was in Las Vegas to see the fight, sent a statement home saying, “we are all very sad here, licking our wounds.”
In radio call-in shows, some Filipinos complained Pacquiao had been unfairly head-butted, leading to a cut above his right eye in the fifth round.
Others called for a re-match for Pacquiao, a former two-time world champ.
Pacquiao, who had appeared with Arroyo in various public service commercials in the past, was widely expected to win in this country so he could move up to a title shot.
