Still rooting for Manny

THE whole Philippines, plus Filipinos all over the world are showing their support for pound-4-pound king Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao as he face Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton in Las Vegas this Saturday.
There is no doubt that Pacquiao remains a hero for most of us not just because he’s a champion in the ring, but he is a symbol for Filipinos who worked their way to success. Once a poor, simple man, Pacquiao is now on top of the world – a prized athlete, admired by many and respected by his fellow fighters.
Of course, we are praying that he will again win this fight. Although we have been used to seeing him defeat his opponents in the past, we all know how hard he has trained every time he goes in the ring, and what physical beating and pain he has to endure just to bring glory to the Philippines.
With this, we are, as always, rooting for him. Because win or lose, he is still a champion in the Filipinos’ hearts. (AJPress)
( www.asianjournal.com )
( Published on May 2, 2009 in Asian Journal Los Angeles p. A12 )