GENERAL SANTOS CITY, Philippines — Setting aside politics, the city government has announced a red carpet welcome for Asian boxing sensation Manny Pacquiao.
Pacquiao, who grabbed the World Boxing Council Super featherweight title from Juan Miguel Marquez, is a political opponent of Mayor Pedro Acharon.
The boxer ran and lost in the 2007 congressional elections against Acharon party mate Darlene Custodio. The elections had put a wedge between Acharon and Pacquiao’s relationship, who were personal friends.
Ernesto Quisay, Acharon’s chief of staff, said on Wednesday that the city government has been preparing for Pacquiao’s expected homecoming on March 24.
He said like the rest of the nation, officials and residents here are also excited to see Pacquiao home after his bout with Marquez.
Quisay said compared with previous homecoming events for Pacquiao, this year will be “bigger” because he is now a world titleholder.
He said the Filipino ring idol will be met at the airport by a welcoming party, led by city officials.
“There would be activities and presentations at the airport before a motorcade, which will tour the greatest Filipino boxer to the city’s main thoroughfares,” he said.
Based on the plan, the motorcade will wind up at the Oval Plaza covered court here, where a welcome program and a press conference will be held.
