VIGAN CITY – A Hawaiian boxer born in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, awaits a hero’s welcome in the province after the members of the provincial board approved a resolution recognizing his notable achievement in boxing.
Brian Viloria—a native of Barangay San Jose, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur—knocked out Eric Ortiz in the first round of their title bout to win the World Boxing Council Junior Flyweight crown Sunday at the Staple Center in Los Angeles.
Vice-Governor Deogracias Victor B. Savellano said Friday that Viloria is the first purebred Ilocano to become a world-boxing champion. His father is a native of Barangay San Jose, Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, and his mother hails from Santa Maria.
“It is a great pride for the province of Ilocos Sur and our countrymen. Viloria’s victory was shared not only by his provincemates, but also his countrymen in the Philippines,” he said.
Mayor Edgardo Zaragoza of Narvacan lauded Viloria as he authored the passage of a resolution honoring his impressive victory in boxing.
Provincial Board Member Zuriel S. Zaragoza said, “He deserves all the accolades that we, as his province mates and countrymen, accord him on his conquest of the world stage in boxing.”
The provincial government has invited Viloria to visit the province.
He is expected to arrive in the country in the next few days to visit his ailing grandfather, who is reportedly confined in a hospital.
Earlier, President Arroyo and Governor Luis Singson of Ilocos Sur jointly congratulated Viloria, Rey Bautista and Manny Pacquiao for their impressive wins on Sunday.
