MANILA, Philippines — Despite Manny Pacquiao’s open support for his political rival, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim has arranged for a free live viewing of the boxing champ’s bout in the US on Sunday in the city’s sports gym.
Lim directed chief of staff Ric de Guzman to immediately set up giant screens for Pacquiao’s “Will to Win” match against Mexican fighter Marco Antonio Barrera, which was what his predecessor, now environment secretary Lito Atienza, did every time Pacquiao had a match .
Pacquiao, a friend of the Atienzas since his early fighting days, campaigned for the mayor’s son Ali, who was Lim’s staunchest opponent in last May elections.
When asked if he felt awkward about showing the fight of a man who campaigned for his political opponent, Lim said “Okay naman yun (Atienza’s free-viewing project). Wala na sa atin yun… What we would like to satisfy is the request or appeal of the people. We will give them access,” he said, adding that it was “too petty” a matter to be affected with.
On April 15, Pacquiao’s “Blaze of Glory” fight with Jorge Solis was seen live via satellite from Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, in nine sports venues in Manila. Projectors and LCD screens were used for the no commercial-break showing for residents who availed of free tickets.
Lim, however, said they would coordinate with the bout’s TV promoters to have a live screening. No tickets will be given this time, as the mayor said it would be a “first-come, first-served basis” event.
“They are entitled to view the fight for free. Service din yung entertainment eh [entertainment is also a form of service],” he said.
Whether he wins or not, a welcome parade for the popular boxing icon may also be held in Manila so long as Pacquiao expresses his desire to have one.
“Manalo, matalo, basta gusto nila [Win or lose, as long as they want it]. They have to make representations with us so we can make arrangements,” he said.
The mayor also said he would leave the accolade to Pacquiao, the “adopted son of Manila,” by not joining him in the motorcade around the city.
“Siya lang ang sasakay sa pickup. Hayaan na natin ang honor sa kanya eh siya naman ang champion [He will be alone on the pickup. Let?s give him the honor because he is the champion],” Lim said, referring to a previous victory parade where Pacquiao was accompanied by several candidates who ran in the recent elections.
