MANILA, Philippines –The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is looking to honor Filipino boxing champion Congressman Manny Pacquiao through a formal donning of ranks, AFP spokesman Colonel Arnulfo Burgos said Monday.
“The professionalism, discipline and determination that he displayed in the boxing ring is an inspiration for us soldier in our fight of winning the peace in a different arena,” Burgos said in a press briefing.
Pacquiao currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Army reserve force.
Burgos said that there is no finalized plan as to where and when they will honor Pacquiao. “Nothing is definite yet, but for sure, they are preparing something for [him].”
Pacquiao’s fights are a big inspiration to the soldiers Burgos said. “Every fight of Pacquiao is dedicated to our citizens and also to our soldiers.”
He added that it will surely boost the morale of the troops if Pacquiao could visit them.
Pacquiao recently won a controversial majority decision against long-time rival, Juan Manuel Marquez.