WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines and WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri of the U.S., left, exchange punches during their world welterweight title boxing match at the Venetian Macao in Macau, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014. AP
MANILA, Philippines—Congratulatory statements from various government officials poured in as Filipino boxing champion and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao destroyed American boxer Chris Algieri after a 12-round bout at the Venetian Macao on Sunday.
Vice President Jejomar Binay said that Pacquiao fought Algieri with “heart and determination” despite having a disadvantage with height and reach.
“Algieri may have the advantage in height and reach, but Manny overcame that with his heart and determination. He showed us that he has the true heart of a champion and once again, made us all proud to be Filipinos,” Binay said in a statement.
On the other hand, Senator Nancy Binay said that the victory of Pacquiao proves that he is an inspiration to Filipinos.
“Manny, isa kang inspirasyon sa ating mga kababayan. Patunay ka na kahit anumang pagsubok ang harapin, ito’y mapagtatagumpayan sa tulong ng pagtitiyaga; dedikasyon; at pananalig at pagtitiwala sa sariling kakayahan at sa Maykapal. Mabuhay ka Pambansang Kamao! Mabuhay ang Filipino!” Senator Binay said.
Meanwhile, Army officials also extended their well-wishes on the victory of the “People’s Champ.”
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said that the victory of Pacquiao, who is a reserve officer in the Army with the rank of lieutenant colonel, proved that he remains the “greatest” boxer.
“I was able to catch up with the fight after visiting the wake of Lieutenant Jun Corpuz in La Union. It was a great fight for Manny Pacquiao. Clears all doubt that he is still the greatest. Looking back, Chris Algieri lost was spelled as early as the second round. He didn’t stand the chance to win with the way he was fighting. But what gives more excitement and acknowledgement is how Chris Algieri who was no match for Manny Pacquiao’s fighting skills goes down using the backward roll when he hits the canvass. What a great way to hit the canvass, get up, and fight again,” Catapang said.
Public Affairs Office Chief Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc said that Pacquiao “fought like a warrior in the ring” and “has inspired soldiers to pursue excellence in the military service.”
Pacquiao defended his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight Championship title against Algieri through a unanimous decision.
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