Malacañang elated at Pacquiao’s ‘magnificent triumph’

Manny Pacquiao, of the Philippines, center, is joined by trainer Freddie Roach, left, as he poses with the champion’s belt following his unanimous decision against Timothy Bradley in their WBO welterweight title boxing fight Saturday, April 12, 2014, in Las Vegas. AP

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang on Sunday praised boxing icon and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao for his “magnificent triumph” against Timothy Bradley in a thrilling fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“We join the Filipino nation in celebrating the magnificent triumph of our national treasure in global sports, Congressman Manny Pacquiao,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said in a statement sent to media.

He said Pacquiao “embodies the world-class qualities of the Filipino in many competitive fields” and reflects the resilience and determination of the Filipino people amid successive calamities and challenges.

“We will extend the proverbial red carpet when we welcome home Congressman Manny Pacquiao who will certainly experience the warmth of the unparalleled enthusiasm and abiding affection of nearly 100 million Filipinos,” Coloma said.

Pacquiao reclaimed the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight title on Sunday (Philippine time) after a stunning performance against a wobbling Bradley.

Although failing to knockout his opponent, the People’s champ won by unanimous decision.

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