Manny Pacquiao yesterday took advantage of his audience with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to seek help not for himself but for fellow boxers, who are now jobless, penniless or suffering from disabilities.
True to her words, the President invited Pacquiao to Malaca?ang despite his heartbreaking defeat to Mexican Eric Morales in a nontitle fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 20.
?I suggested to the President the setting up of a pension fund for ex-boxers, especially those who had brought honor for the country during their time,? the 26-year-old boxer from General Santos City, fondly called the People?s Champion, told newsmen after his brief meeting with the President.
He mentioned his townmate, Rolando Navarette, known as the ?Bad Boy? from Dadiangas, as an example of retired boxers who should be extended state assistance.
The President told Pacquiao that although he lost to Morales, he was a winner in the eyes of the Filipino people. She said Pacquiao personifies the strong will and courage of the Filipino to survive overwhelming odds.
Ms. Arroyo assured the boxer of her support in his next fight. Pacquiao has agreed to a rematch with Morales, a former World Boxing Council super featherweight champion.
?It is likely to push through this year,? he said.
