Pacquiao courtesy call to Aquino set for Monday

Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao pays a courtesy call on President Aquino in Malacañang on Dec. 18. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III will finally come face-to-face with boxing icon and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao on Monday for a customary courtesy call after the new World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterwaeight champion’s win last April 12.

The President’s schedule sent to media on Sunday afternoon showed that Pacquiao’s courtesy call is scheduled for 1 p.m. on April 21.

Palace spokespersons earlier said the meeting was already being arranged and will be set based on the schedule and at the convenience of both parties.

Right after Pacquiao’s fight against Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, in behalf of the President, congratulated the boxer for his “magnificent triumph.” Pacquiao was also called a “national treasure” for his prowess in the sport.

The boxing icon came home to the Philippines on Friday.