GENERAL SANTOS CITY (21 September) — World Boxing Super Featherweight Champion Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao received a hero’s welcome from the “Generals” — residents of this city — headed by City Mayor Pedro Acharon Jr. as he returned home yesterday from a triumphant fight in Los Angeles, California, USA.
From the airport, Pacquiao’s motorcade pummeled through the city downtown area.
The convoy numbering some 150 vehicles was led by Pacquiao and Mayor Acharon themselves.
Waiting patiently despite the scorching heat of the sun, fans and supporters of all ages wearing grins, loudly cheering and yelling met the hero in major routes here.
During the motorcade Pacquiao kept on waving his hands and sending out kisses to his fans to signify his appreciation for their support and prayers.
Employees in the roadside business establishments likewise put their work on halt and rushed to the streets to see Pacquiao bringing home the bacon.
“Dako kaayo ang akong kalipay kay ni-uli ko nga daugan, tungud niini kinasingkasing kung gipasalamatan ang tanan tungud sa inyong mga pag-ampo” [I am indeed very happy as I go home now triumphant and I thank you for all your prayers and support]. I also thank the lord for the strength and power he has given me everyday),” Pacquiao said during his arrival.
On Sept 11, Pacquiao knocked out contender Mexican Hector Velazquez in six rounds of the 12 rounds super featherweight bout.
Expressing joy of Pacquiao’s achievement, Mayor Acharon said the Generals’ hero has all the more inspired the youth to follow in his footsteps.
“His (Pacquiao) recent accomplishment will surely give a big boast to at least 15 young amateur boxers now being taking cared of by the city,” Acharon said.
In a press conference, the hero revealed that his fight with Erik Morales, the Mexican boxer who beat him by points in March, is scheduled on January 31. Pacquiao said his scheduled fight with Morales is important to him to regain his honor.
“Importante kini nga away tungud kay dinhi akong ibangon ang akong pangalan ug ang pangalan sa katawhang Pilipino ug labaw sa tanan kamo mga generals (This is an important fight for me to restore my name and that of Filipinos in general.” (PIA-SarGen)
