MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Sunday lauded Filipino boxing icon Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s victory over Mexican fighter Jessie Vargas during their match at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, describing it as a sign of the Filipino capability to reign supreme in his craft.
Pacquiao reclaimed the World Boxing Organization welterweight title for the third time with a unanimous decision victory over Vargas in his comeback fight.
Pacquiao knocked down his opponent on the second round on the way to his latest win, with three judges scoring in favor of the Filipino champion.
“Manny Pacquiao’s triumph over his adversary in the boxing ring proves how Filipinos can reign supreme in his craft–whether in sports or in life’s mightier struggle. His victory epitomizes resolve to pursue a struggle and succeed,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said.
He added the Pacman exemplifies the Filipino indomitable spirit to rise above expectations from his humble beginnings, to the international boxing arena, to the hallowed halls of the Philippine Senate.
“The AFP shares the jubilation of the Filipinos here and around the world for this yet another great feat in world sports history. Congratulations, Senator World Champ,” Aevalo pointed out.
As this develops, Army spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said Pacquiao’s latest win cements his reputation as world class boxer.
“As a world class boxer, Army Lt. Col. Manny Pacquiao of the Reserve Force has truly been a source of inspiration, not only to our troops, but also to our organization who aspires to be a world-class Army by 2028,” he added.
Pacquiao is the executive officer of the 1st Sarangani Infantry Battalion (Ready Reserve).
“Lt. Col. Pacquiao’s win is another milestone in his boxing career and in the minds of our troops that Filipinos can be on top of the world with dedication, focus, and love of our country,” Hao stressed.
The Filipino boxer first entered the Army’s reserve force in April 27, 2006 as a sergeant and rose through the ranks through meritorious promotion.
He was appointed to his current rank in 2011 after satisfying the requirements for commissionship in the military. Priam Nepomuceno/PNA-northboundasia.com