CEBU CITY ? A proposed ordinance before the Cebu City Council seeks to make boxing icon Manny Pacquiao an adopted son of Cebu City.
Councilor Sylvan Jakosalem, one of the proponents, said that like Lapu-Lapu, who fought against foreign dominion, Pacquiao showed the true spirit of a Cebuano by displaying determination and courage to endure all rounds during his fight with Erik Morales.
Pacquiao suffered a deep cut over his right eyebrow in the fifth round, the blood profusely flowing from the cut that affected his vision.
Despite that, however, Pacquiao continued to fight up to last round, showing true grit, Jakosalem said, something a true Cebuano possesses.
Pacquiao?s father, Rosalio, was from Pinamungajan while his mother was from Baybay, Leyte.
He also speaks Cebuano and ?honored? Cebu City by visting City Hall Wednesday last week.
His visit prompted the City Council to call for a recess immediately after the start of the session.
In a brief speech, Pacquiao thanked the Cebuanos for the support, and said it was an honor for him to proudly wave the country?s flag in foreign lands.
Jakosalem said Pacquiao showed that Filipinos are at par with foreign boxers who dominate his weight division.
The distinction of being a Cebu City adopted son is usually conferred on foreigners or non-residents who made significant contributions or were a pride to the Cebuanos.
