Original Story: http://www.malaya.com.ph/03152010/news6.html
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday congratulated World Boxing Organization welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao for once again displaying "unselfish patriotism and unyielding perseverance" in his victory over Ghana national Joshua Clottey.
"Sa pagkakaisa at pagsisikap, nagwagi muli si Manny para sa bayan. Ito rin ang ating landas tungo sa tagumpay ng sambayanan," Arroyo said in a statement issued by presidential spokesman Ricardo Saludo.
Deputy presidential spokesman Gary Olivar said Pacquiao’s latest conquest proved to the world that the Filipino’s talent and determination sets him apart from the rest of the world.
"We need to muster the same courage and strength that Manny Pacquiao exemplified, in order to rise above the politics of hate and fear. This is the only way we can rightfully choose the leaders who are up to the challenges of our time," he said.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Delfin Bangit and Army chief Lt. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu said Pacquiao displayed what a Filipino really is.
"We are happy because his (Pacquiao) win was obvious. It was obvious that he was not going to lose. To me and to the soldiers, what he showed will be another inspiration for us," Bangit said.
Bangit saw the fight at the theater of the AFP Medical Center. He was joined by soldiers wounded in combat.
Bangit said Pacquiao displayed skills, stamina and spirit (SSS) which are taught to Scout Rangers.
"What Manny showed is good to the troops who are also fighting (against threat groups)," he said.
Bangit said no promotions are in order but the military will give special recognition to Pacquiao.
Pacquiao is senior master sergeant and sergeant major of the Army reservists.
Mapagu saw the bout at the Army gym in Fort Bonifacio where a large screen was installed together with a large crowd of troops and their dependents.
"Manny is a consummate fighter. Really, really good. Although his opponent refused to fight toe to toe, he demonstrated patience to find openings. He again made our country proud. The Army is very proud of Manny. He is a real soldier," said Mapagu.
The Commission on Elections asked candidates to steer clear of Pacquiao’s homecoming. No date has been fixed.
A welcome parade for Pacquiao is not complete without his "patrons" former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza and former Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson.
"Let the country enjoy it. Let’s not mix politics with that celebration… Spare the event," Commissioner Gregorio Larrazabal said.
"That event represents that Manny is for Filipinos, not for any individual or group or organization," he said.
Pacquiao is running for congressman of Sarangani under the Nacionalista party. He had endorsed the candidacy of Manny Villar, the party’s standard bearer. – Jocelyn Montemayor, Victor Reyes and Gerard Naval
Original Story: http://www.malaya.com.ph/03152010/news6.html
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