At A Glance
- He may have fought World Boxing Council (WBC) super lightweight champion Mario Barrios to a draw, but 46-year-old boxing icon Manny Pacquiao still deserves commendation for his rousing return to the ring, says 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino "Nonoy" Libanan.
4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan (left), Manny Pacquiao (Facebook)
He may have fought World Boxing Council (WBC) super lightweight champion Mario Barrios to a draw, but 46-year-old boxing icon Manny Pacquiao still deserves commendation for his rousing return to the ring, says 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan.
For this purpose, Libanan filed House Resolution (HR) No.59, which expressed the sense of the House of Representatives in congratulating and commending the former eight-division world champion over his latest bout.
Under the measure filed in the current 20th Congress, Libanan hailed Pacquiao's courageous showing against a younger, reigning world champion Barrios. He said "Pacman's" performance reaffirmed his enduring stature as a Filipino icon and global sports legend.
“Despite the formidable odds and his time away from professional boxing, former Senator Pacquiao exhibited extraordinary skill, unyielding determination, and the heart of a true champion,” the 19th Congress minority leader said in his resolution.
“His latest fight, regardless of the outcome, stands as a powerful reminder that the Filipino can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world — driven not just by skill, but by grit, grace, and love of country,” he said.
HR No.59 also emphasizes the broader significance of Pacquiao’s journey from poverty to prominence.
“His life story, from humble beginnings to global renown, continues to inspire countless Filipinos to strive for greatness despite hardship,” Libanan noted.
Libanan said Pacquiao’s “achievements both inside and outside the ring have brought immeasurable honor to the country, earning him international respect while embodying the Filipino spirit of courage, faith, and perseverance".
"Manny Pacquiao remains more than just a world-class athlete — he is a national treasure whose every triumph uplifts the Filipino soul,” he said in further extolling the boxing legend.
The resolution concludes by officially extending the House’s congratulations to Pacquiao “for continuing to serve as an enduring source of inspiration, hope, and pride for the Filipino people".