Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Arroyo calls Pacquiao her 'personal inspiration'
MANILA -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Monday that boxing champion Manny Pacquiao is her inspiration in continuing to fight for Filipinos and the future of the country despite attempts to put her down.
Arroyo, in a pre-recorded statement and during a roundtable discussion, acknowledged Pacquiao for his victory Saturday (Sunday in Manila) over Mexican boxing champ Erik Morales whom he defeated by technical knockout on the 10th of the 12-round fight in Las Vegas, Nevada.
"The whole nation rejoices in the victory of our boxing hero. We all thank Manny Pacquiao for uniting the Filipino people for the good fight. Manny clearly showed us that with discipline, hard work and determination, there are no impossible dreams," the President said.
She said Pacquiao and the tale of his conquest over formidable odds should serve as a model and inspiration to Filipinos, particularly the youth, to work towards courageous excellence.
"Si Manny ay umahon sa kabiguan na may higit na matulis na utak, higit na malakas na katawan at determinasyong manalo kaya siya naging tunay na kampiyon ng taumbayan dito sa panahon ng hamon at oportunidad. Siya ang aking inspirasyon sa dakilang laban para sa taumbayang Filipino. (Manny rose from defeat with a sharper mind, a stronger body, and the will to win - which makes him the real people's champ in these times of challenge and opportunity. He is my inspiration in the great fight for the Filipino people)," she added.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the President was not hoping for Pacquiao's victory and popularity among the masses to rub off on her when she called up the boxer to personally congratulate him after the match.
Bunye, who is also presidential spokesman, added that politics had nothing to do with her decision, which was appreciated by Pacquiao.
He said a big and warm welcome, including a parade, would be accorded to Pacquiao when he comes home to the country.
Incoming presidential chief of staff Michael Defensor defended First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo who was among the first to go in the boxing arena to congratulate Pacquiao after his victory.
Defensor said the President's husband had long been helping and supporting Pacquiao's boxing career and even the athlete acknowledges it.
He also echoed Pacquiao's wish for his victory to help unite the Filipinos, including political leaders, who have set aside their differences in views and opinion as they prayed and rooted for him during the boxing match. (JMR/Sunnex)
(January 24, 2006 issue)
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