MACTAN, Cebu ? Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao is expected to promote peace and unity in the country initially through hosting a basketball tournament among soldiers and rebels as part of his new ambassadorial role in government, according to Press Secretary Cerge Remonde.
Remonde said Pacquiao has agreed to preside over such local sports events that are considered an alternative route to peace during a recent meeting with President Arroyo in Malaca?ang.
Following his sensational victory against British fighter Ricky Hatton in the United States, Pacquiao has been designated ambassador for peace and understanding by President Arroyo during a National Day of Celebration last Monday in the Palace.
“We all know that Pacquiao has become the single most potent unifying factor in our country today precisely because of the pride that he has given to our country and to our people. We felt rightfully so that towards this end, he can help many of the divisions existing in the country basically as a symbol,” Remonde said, at the Imperial Palace Waterpark Resort and Spa here.
“There will be events and activities and the like that will be organized that will center on him as a focal person. One of the things that has been discussed for example is a basketball tournament involving the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front), and even the rightist rebels, and other sports activities that will be presided by Pacquiao,” he said.
