He may have lost a bout via a sixth-round knockout, but Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao still has the respect and support of Filipinos.
While some Filipinos were stunned over the loss, many took to Twitter to reassure Pacquiao they are still proud of him.
“Manny trained hard and he fought hard in the ring. I am sure he will rise from this adversity a better and stronger person,” said Vice President Jejomar Binay on his Twitter account.
Jejomar C. Binay @VPJojoBinay
Manny trained hard and he fought hard in the ring. I am sure he will rise from this adversity a better and stronger person. 9 Dec 12
In Malaca?ang, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office head Ramon Carandang said they were saddened but still proud of Pacquiao.
“Nakakalungkot na natalo si Manny (pero) ang laking karangalang binigay niya sa bansa (We are sad that Manny lost but we remember the honor he brought to the country). Whether he won or lost does not diminish the honor he brought to the country,” Carandang said in an interview on dzBB radio.
Moments earlier, Carandang had tweeted, “I’m shocked.” A day before, deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte had sent “advance congratulations” to Pacquiao in anticipation of a victory.
Ricky Carandang @rickycarandang
I’m shocked. 9 Dec 12
For his part, former President Joseph Estrada added, “Weather-weather lang yan. We are still proud of you Manny.”
Joseph Estrada ✔ @PresidentErap
Weather-weather lang yan. We are still proud of you Manny #Pacquiao. #pacmarquez 9 Dec 12
Camarines Sur Rep. Diosdado Arroyo gave Pacquiao a similar assurance, saying he can’t wait for the next fight.
“Sabi nga ni @MannyPacquiao, ganyan talaga ang boxing (As Pacquiao himself said, that’s boxing). Still proud of you Manny! Can’t wait for the next fight!” Arroyo tweeted.
Dato Arroyo @datoarroyo
Sabi nga ni @MannyPacquiao , ganyan talaga ang boxing. Still proud of you Manny! Can’t wait for the next fight! 9 Dec 12
Pacquiao’s loss stunned many Filipinos who tuned in to the radio and TV.
Earlier Sunday, many streets were deserted as people tuned in to the bout on TV and radio, or watched a screening of the fight in hotels and sports bars.
Philippine Army spokesman Maj. Harold Cabunoc tweeted a photo of Army soldiers watching the televised bout (https://twitter.com/HaroldCabunoc94/status/277645738513690624).
