GENERAL Santos City is known for its tuna. And Manny Pacquiao, of course.
So, when it’s favorite son returns anew after a huge victory atop the ring, the city will accord Pacquiao another hero’s welcome.
Even when Pacquiao lost to Erik Morales the first time they fought, he was also given a ticker-tape parade by his townmates.
Pacquiao, who pulled off another sporting triumph for the country when he beat Mexican Oscar Larios via a unanimous decision last Sunday, is scheduled to arrive in General Santos City this morning together with his family.
It is reported that Mayor Pedro Acharon Jr. himself will join Pacquiao on the plane from Manila and lead the day’s activities that include a motorcade in the morning and victory party at night.
Acharon had attended the World Urban Forum 3 in Vancouver, Canada and is scheduled to fly back to Manila in time for Pacquiao’s scheduled homecoming.
Ernesto Quisay, Acharon’s chief of staff, said Pacquiao will be greeted by given arrival honors by city officials and the moment he sets foot at the General Santos City International Airport.
After the airport ceremony, a motorcade will follow passing through the city’s main thoroughfares and ending up at Oval Plaza covered court where a brief program and press conference will take place.
Pacquiao will be given time to rest and spend time with his family after the press conference, but will be back hours later to join the victory party at a still undisclosed venue.
Quisay said there was also a plan to set up a wide screen during the affair to allow Pacquiao and the guests to watch his fight during dinner.
