By Priam Nepomuceno/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — Filipino boxing icon Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s victory over American boxer Keith Thurman did not just inspire the Philippine Army (PA) but the entire nation as well.
This was stressed by Army commander, Lt. Gen. Macairog S. Alberto, in a statement forwarded to reporters shortly after the boxing match Sunday.
“The PA congratulates Manny Pacquiao on his win, bringing pride not only to his fellow Army soldiers but to the entire nation as well. His discipline and determination will inspire our soldiers all over the country who are continuing to fight for a just and lasting peace,” he stressed.
In December 2017, Pacquiao was promoted to the rank of a full-fledged colonel after finishing his General Staff Course.
Prior to this, his promotion to lieutenant colonel was approved in September 2011 as recommended by Army Officials.
He first enlisted in the Army Reserve Force with the rank of sergeant in 2006 with the recommendation of then Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff, General Alexander Yano.
Pacquiao was then promoted to technical sergeant in the same year, rising through the ranks when he became a master sergeant in 2009.
Earlier, the Army chief hosted a live viewing of the Pacquiao-Thurman fight at the Ricarte Hall, PA Officers Clubhouse, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig.
The viewing was part of the Wounded Warriors’ Program attended by wounded Army soldiers and their dependents.
Several celebrities were also in attendance such as Matteo Guidicelli, Robin Padilla, Solenn Heusaff and husband Nico Bolzico, and Rhian Ramos.
The match between Pacquiao and Thurman was held at the MGM Grand Arena, Las Vegas Saturday night (US time).
The boxer-senator, commonly known as ‘Pacman’, prevailed against Thurman over a split decision and won his 13th world title overall.
There, Pacquiao scored his 61st win against seven defeats and two draws. Thurman, meanwhile, suffered his first career loss after a 29-0 start with 22 knockouts.
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