FILIPINO boxing icon Manny Pacquiao will defend his coveted WBO Welterweight championship crown against undefeated American Timothy Bradley tonight (Sunday morning Manila time) at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, U.S.A. Like in previous fights when “The Pacman” climbs the ring, our kababayans all over the country and elsewhere around the world are united in prayer for the victory of our ring idol. It’s true that during the showdown peace and harmony among our people reign not-withstanding diversities in politics, religion, stature in life and what have you.
Even the rebels and other criminal activities come a halt to follow up the ongoing clash of boxing greats. Pacquiao who is now a bible preacher said he is in great shape. “I am ready to go. We are ready for whatever Bradley has to bring.” On the other hand Freddie Roach his chief trainer said “I feel that we are going to knock him out somewhere along the way.”
This is because of the “sugod ng sugod fighting style of the “The Desert Storm”,” which gives ward the advantage. On the other side of the coin, Bradley parroted again and again that he will shock the world with his prowess and grab the WBO Welterweight crown from the Congressman from Sarangani.
Bradley, 28 is five years younger than Pacquiao with sterling record of 28 all win card. He is strong, powerful and hungry for a world title. He has nothing to loss and all to gain including his guaranteed $5 million, his biggest paycheck ever as a prize fighter.
Manny Pacquiao added that his encounter against his Californian foe “will be a great fight and people will be satisfied with the result.” This was his promise which Coach Freddie voted with approval, with confidence and a smile. I predict that if a knockout will happen, it will take place from the second round to the eight with the Pinoy on the podium. If and when it goes the 12-round distance, Pacquiao will still retain his crown with unanimous decision. Experience and ring savvy is on the side of Mr. Pacquiao. It’s time once again to join hands and hearts to wish and pray for “Manny’s triumph!”
Oh yes! Added flavor to the fight night is the participation of two teenage singing luminaries during the opening ceremonies. Singing sensation of American Idol 12 Filipino-Mexican Jessica Sanchez, 16, will sing the “Star Spangle Banner,” America’s National Anthem; 14-year-old Fil-Am kirby Aquino was personally chosen by Manny Pacquiao to sing “Lupang Hinirang.” The Philippine National Anthem. Malaking parangal ito sa ating lahi at para sa lahat na Pilipino! Mabuhay tayong lahat!
Here’s a hearty congratulations to TEAM BAGUIO. The team retained the Philippine Games (PNG) overall championship title with whopping harvest of 78 gold medals, 74 silver and 52 bronze medals. Swimmer Jenkins Lorenzo Labao was the most outstanding performer with 6 gold medals and a silver medal. Even with the limited support from the city government, our athletes were superb is athletics, arnis, judo, wrestling and wushu which pooled in the most number of medals in TEAM BAGUIO’s unstoppable journey to the top. Host Dumaguete Team was second place while Zamboanga settled on the third slot.
I hope and pray that the City Government will implement fully cash incentive prize scheme as promulgated in the City Ordinance Numbered 092, Series of 1994. The authorities concerned should follow to the Ordinance in recognition for the exemplary performances of athletes and their coaches. Surely, the cash awards will inspire them to gain more honor and prestige for our beloved city. Happily, I was the main author of Ordinance No. 094 when I served as one of the City Councilor. If I have my way, the cash incentive prizes should increase to be double or three-fold!
I wrote a simple poem in acrostic form which is loving dedicated to Brian “The Hawaiian Punch” Viloria his loved ones and to his hord of boxing fans around the country and elsewhere. I hope the reader will like it too.
B – Brian Viloria is a budding Filipino-american boxing icon,
R – Revered, highly respected and rightfully dubbed “The Hawaiian Punch” for his superior prowess
I – In the international sport’s boxing firmament.
A – Anywhere and anytime today, World Boxing Organization (WBO) Flyweight champion, Brian whose native roots are from
N – Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, fans is likened to a rare diamond to the millions on multi-radical young and old admirers and especially to his loved ones.
V – Victory-after-victory in his professional career as a talented and skillful boxer.
I – In recent years, he gifted our country and Good Old U.S.A, his overseas home of destiny.
L – Lofty billing, honor and prestige showcasing in any lingo, the Pinoy’s sports brilliance and excellence.
O – Over the years, our Fil-am pride and cherished treasure, in or outside the boxing ring
R – Remind us that love, prayers and everlasting faith in the Holy Trinity, Hardwork, Sacrifice and Sincerity of purpose
I – Is first and formost, the Christian rosy path to a joyous and fruitful life of contentment for
A – Any person seeking peace, progress and harmony with fellowmen and enduring happiness in this world full of challenges.
Happy Independence Day to one and all!
