EVEN with his controversial defeat on Sunday against undefeated American boxer Timothy Bradley Jr., local and national officials still laud Manny Pacquiao and believed he is the real winner.
Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Norris Babiera said Pacquiao was robbed of victory and that he won fair and square.
?But it was Manny?s shining moment when he accepted the decision and that was Pinoy attitude. We endeared with the international community. I salute Manny?s sportsmanship!? Babiera said.
Provincial Board member Jesus Jardin also believed Pacquiao is the winner and not Bradley.
Jardin said although he is not a boxing fan and with his little knowledge about boxing, he believed that the Pinoy boxing pride won.
?Anyway, let us thank Pacman for he was very graceful in accepting the loss, which is a very good attitude,? he said.
Meanwhile, Zambales Representative Mitos Magsaysay also lauded Pacquiao?s performance despite the controversial results.
Magsaysay said Pacquiao has put up a good fight and as an athlete, he understands that the decision will always result in either a win or loss.
She added that Pacquiao has proven himself time and again against the world?s best boxers.
?He did admirably against Bradley and I have no doubt Manny will bounce back on his feet and persevere more for his next training, as he always does,? Magsaysay said.
She stressed that Pacquiao has nothing to be ashamed of and as a nation, the Filipino people should be proud of the Pambansang Kamao because he is a world-class athlete who shows class and integrity in every fight.
