PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo paid tribute to boxing champion Manny Pacquiao, calling him her “inspiration” in governance. In a statement, Arroyo also thanked Pacquiao for uniting the country when he beat Mexican Erik Morales during their rematch in Las Vegas last Sunday.
“Manny rose from defeat with a sharper mind, and a stronger body and will to win. That is why he is the true people’s champion in this time of challenges and opportunity,” the President said.
“He is my inspiration in this noble fight for the Filipino people,” she added.
Arroyo said Pacquiao should serve as a model of “courageous excellence” for the youth.
Pacquiao is a known supporter of the President, who continues to be hounded by allegations that she cheated in the 2004 election.
First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo was among those who watched the Pacquiao-Morales bout in the United States.
At the House of Representatives, South Cotabato Darlene Antonino-Custodio filed House Resolution 1091, commending Pacquiao for his “brilliant victory.”
Custodio said Pacquiao did not only serve as an inspiration but had also “restored the dignity and self-respect” of the Filipino people.
“By his life and exploits, Manny has served as an inspiration to the Filipino people, urging the latter to overcome trials and hurdle life’s challenges through sheer hard work and determination,” Custodio said.
“As a boxing icon, Manny has restored the dignity and self-respect of the Filipino, making Filipinos all over the world proud of their heritage,” she said.
“By humility and genuine love for the Filipinos, Manny has fully and completely endeared himself to our countrymen and serves as a unifying factor for the entire Filipino nation,” she said.
House Minority Floor Leader Francis Escudero said opposition members were willing to sign Custodio’s resolution.
