Negros Occidental officials lauded Manny Pacquiao’s grit against Mario Barrios in their WBC welterweight title fight in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday.
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya commended Pacquiao for inspiring unity and pride among Filipinos.
MANNY Pacquiao (right) fights Mario Barrios in a welterweight title boxing match Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP)
“Though the fight ended in a draw, for us, you remain the victor. Once more, you inspired strength, unity, and pride in every Filipino across the globe,” said Gasataya who referred to Pacquiao as the city’s adopted son.
The city showed support by hosting a free live viewing of their match at the Bacolod City Government Center.
Gasataya highlighted Pacquiao’s courage in going head-to-head with a younger, taller opponent, fighting not just for himself but for the honor of the entire nation.
“We stand with you now and always,” he said.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson called Pacquiao “still a champ” and praised the boxing icon’s heart, skill, and courage at the age of 46.
“Despite it ended in a draw, for us, the Pambansang Kamao remains our champ,” Lacson said, recalling his past encounters with Pacquiao during visits to the province.
“He defied the odds and carried the pride of an entire nation,” Lacson added as he thanked Pacquiao for raising the flag and making the Filipinos proud.
Negros Occidental third district Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez also paid tribute and shared personal memories of meeting Pacquiao in Las Vegas in 2011 and again in Congress in 2013.
“Thank you for the pride, inspiration, and legacy you’ve given the Philippines,” Benitez said, calling Pacquiao the country’s true “Pambansang Kamao.”