Once in a generation arrives an athlete that unites people of all ethnicities and gender without uttering a word. This era?s man is Manny Pacquiao, better known as The People?s Champion.
War is a common word in the Philippines, where the Moro Rebels continuously engage in a vicious battle with the country?s army in the southern area of the country, mainly Basilian.
But when Pacquiao boxes, an eerie aura permeates the country?s roads.
Silence.
Pacquiao is a man so beloved that rebels who refuse to sit and negotiate with foreign mediators call ceasefires for his bouts. A wicked irony, a man who creates lethal damage with his fists brings about temporary peace. Even the criminals like Manny.
When he wins, the streets of Manila are abuzz with electricity and joy. When he loses, albeit rarely, the country goes into a quiet depression, and not of the financial kind.
Why do they love this man so much? Why are the shoulders of a country of millions belonging to a lightweight boxing champion?
Because he is one of the people.
Manny Pacquiao grew up on the streets. His education stopped abruptly in grade school. He sold stolen cigars on the side roads of Manila, and his food was usually a loaf of bread, also stolen.
Then he had the epiphany: he could fight, and get paid as well. What started as a rouse to make a few bucks has come to this: The kid who scraped for crumbs is now making $20 million and is the reigning king of boxing.
Somewhere in the Philippines, or perhaps Africa, South America, or some other lonely corner of the world, a young child is inspired by Manny Pacquiao, and will one day achieve a similar goal. In the child?s mind it is simply this: ?If Manny could, maybe I can too.?
The hope and inspiration Manny Pacquiao gives to people all around the world is what makes him not just a recognized professional boxing champion, but the champion of the people as well.
