Monday, March 31, 2008 Pacquiao returns; to play Lapu-Lapu?
A LARGE crowd of eager Pacman fans were at the entrance of the arrival area of the Mactan International Airport bringing banners and little replicas of the Philippine flag waiting for their Filipino ring idol Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s arrival.
The newly crowned World Boxing Council super featherweight champion arrived yesterday with a big smile on his face and was greeted by his friend Rex “Wakee” Salud, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Arturo Radaza and other Lapu-Lapu City officials who brought a huge welcome banner with Pacquiao and Jinkee’s name on it.
Pacquiao is on a vacation here in Cebu for two days with his wife Jinkee and children and will be staying at the Shangrila Hotel in Mactan.
The three-division world champion is also here to visit his friend and confidant Salud.
Pacquiao thanked Radaza for giving him a warm welcome, while the mayor on the other hand was honored by the presence of the Filipino superstar.
“We are very proud of him,” said Radaza of the newly-crowned world champion.
According to Salud, Radaza will personally request Pacquiao to play the role of Lapu-Lapu in the annual re-enactment of the Kadaugan sa Mactan.
However, in an interview with Sun.Star Superbalita, Salud said it’s still not sure whether Pacquiao willlaccept the role.
Fans
Meanwhile, the ordinary fans waiting for Pacquiao outside let out a big scream upon seeing their hero emerge out of the arrival area.
A drum and bugle corps also played on as Pacquaio greeted his fans.
“Nalipay kaayo ko kay nakakita na jud ko sa akong idol nga si Manny. Nagsubay nako ana niya gikan pa sa away nila ni Morales,” said a die hard Pacquiao fanatic after seeing his idol for the first time.
The 29-year-old slugger dethroned Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez and won the WBC crown and the vacant Ring Magazine “Peoples Champion” strap last March 16. (EKA with ESL)
