Malacañang lauds Nonito Donaire for retaining two crowns

MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang Sunday congratulated Nonito Donaire Jr. for retaining his two crowns after defeating Argentine boxer Omar Narvaez in their bout in New York City.

“Congratulations to the Filipino Flash … We’re all very proud of you,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said upon learning the 12-round unanimous decision in favor of Donaire, who retained his World Boxing Council and World Boxing Organization bantamweight titles.

Interviewed over state radio dzRB, Valte said Donaire’s win showed that “it’s not only the (people’s champ) Cong. Manny Pacquiao who does us proud when it comes to the boxing arena.”

She said the country has many good boxers and underscored the need for the country to continue support them.

Valte also said the Palace was equally excited over the Nov. 12 match between Pacquiao and his Mexican rival Juan Manuel Marquez and added her belief that the Filipino champ would prevail in his latest match.

“We are solidly behind the Pacman. Our boxers are our pride and many people are excited and waiting for this fight. We know that Congressman Pacquiao will again do us proud,” she said.