Manny Pacquiao leads a slew of 2009 champions in the biggest gathering of Filipino professional boxers during the 10th Gabriel “Flash” Elorde Memorial Boxing Awards tonight at the Harbor Garden Tent of the Sofitel Hotel.
Pacquiao, fresh from his conquest of Joshua Clottey in Dallas, Texas, will be honored as the only boxer to win seven belts in seven weight divisions in ceremonies commemorating the 25th death and 75th birth anniversary of Flash Elorde, the undisputed world junior lightweight champion from 1960-67.
He will also be in attendance as guest of honor and speaker during the two-hour rites also dubbed the Flash Elorde “Banquet of Champions,” an exclusive gathering of world, international and Philippine champions in the year just ended.
The affair is hosted by the Elorde Sports Foundation and sponsored by the Johnny Elorde Management International with Cobra Energy Drink as co-presentor.
The awards will be presented by the Elorde family led by the boxing legend’s wife, Laura. Liza Elorde and Ted Lerner are the masters of ceremonies.
The awards night, presented for the 10th straight year to honor boxing greats and all those who contributed to the development of pro boxing, is supported by Smart Communications, Cobra Energy Drink, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corp. and Sofitel Hotel, Elorde Gyms, Southpaw Bar & Grill and Bai & Migs Party Favors.
To receive honors as Boxers of the Year are Nonito Donaire (IBF flyweight), Brian Viloria (IBF jr.flyweight), Donnie Nietes (WBO strawweight), Gerry Penalosa (WBO bantamweight), Marvin Sonsona (WBO strawweight) and Rodel Mayol (WBC light flyweight).
