International Boxing Federation light flyweight titlist Brian Viloria was hailed as a “true Filipino champion” by Filipinos in Hawaii when they feted the “Hawaiian Punch” for successfully defending his crown against Mexican Jesus Iribe.
“Brian’s a true champion, a Filipino champion,” Philippine Consul General to Hawaii Leoncio Cardenas said during the party.
The Philippine consulate and the Filipino community in Hawaii led the celebrations for the Waipahu-based Ilocano’s unanimous decision over tough challenger Iribe in their “Island Assault” card, the first title fight in the islands in 33 years.
Joining in the well-attended celebrations, according to a report by the Department of Foreign Affairs, were Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino, Hawaii Rep. John Mizuno, Kapuso star Jolina Magdangal, who sang the Lupang Hinirang on fight night, and Fil-Am singer Jordan Segundo. Amelia Casamina Cabatu, a well-known personality in Honolulu, emceed the program.
Viloria, born in the Filipino enclave of Waipahu, Honolulu and whose parents hailed from Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, said he makes it a point to pay tribute to his roots everytime he enters the ring.
“I always try to do well because I want to represent my culture and heritage the best I can,” the 28-year-old Viloria told the crowd, beaming with pride as the theme from “Hawaii Five-O” play on.
It was Viloria’s first defense of the IBF 108-lb belt that he won by stopping erstwhile champ Ulises “Archie” Solis in a “Philippine homecoming” fight at the Araneta Coliseum last April.
Viloria currently belongs to an elite list of Pinoy boxing champions, along with pound-for-pound king and IBO light-welterweight boss Manny Pacquiao, WBA interim super flyweight holder Nonito Donaire, Jr. and WBO minimumweight titlist Donnie Nietes. – GMANews.TV
