Amid the political crisis gripping the government, boxing champion Manny Pacquiao on Friday called on fellow Filipinos to unite and reconcile each other’s differences, whether in politics or other issues, to help move the country forward, DZMM reported.
Pacquiao’s statement came days after he bagged the World Boxing Council super featherweight crown by beating Mexican Hector Velasquez in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).
Pacquiao came home before dawn Friday to a hero’s welcome at the Terminal 2 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. From the terminal, he proceeded to the Manila Hotel before the press conference at the Manila City Hall past 9 a.m.
The boxer said that Filipinos should learn to “forgive and forget.” Otherwise, Filipinos cannot move on, he said.
After the press conference, the boxer and “Team Pacquiao” had a motorcade that took them to Tondo, Santa Cruz, Escolta and Sampaloc districts in Manila.
Rains, on the other hand, failed to dampen the spirits of Pacquiao fans waiting by the road as they cheered for their boxing idol.
But past 11 a.m., the motorcade stopped and Pacquiao transferred to another vehicle because of heavy rain.
Pacquiao is also scheduled to proceed to Malaca?an later in the day for a courtesy call despite the absence of President Arroyo. The President is attending the United Nations Summit and will return to Manila on Sunday.
Since Thursday, Filipinos from all walks of life have been waiting for Pacquiao’s homecoming following a successful bout against Velasquez.
Pacquiao knocked out Velasquez at the sixth round at their 12-round championship at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
The prized boxer is scheduled to take on Mexican legend Erik Morales on January 21 next year for a rematch of their bout last March in Las Vegas. Pacquiao lost to the Mexican in their fight in March.
