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Hugs, kisses, cheers welcome triumphant Pacquiao at NAIA


MANILA, Philippines - Three days after conquering Oscar dela Hoya, Filipino boxing champ Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao returned to Manila before dawn Wednesday amid hugs, kisses and cheers from children and supporters. GMA 7's Tina Panganiban-Perez reported that Pacquiao arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 aboard a Philippine Airlines PR-103 flight from the United States. The champ hugged and kissed his children who were part of the "welcoming committee." Pacquiao thanked God, the Filipino people and his supporters for his victory before entering the VIP lounge with his children and his support team. After arrival, Pacquiao was to head for the Renaissance Hotel in Makati City to rest before going to Quiapo Church for a thanksgiving mass, and to Malacañang for a courtesy call on President Arroyo. Tight security Security was tight at the NAIA Terminal 2, with security personnel clearing the area and barring media from entering the north/VIP gate. Radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen reported that the gate was closed off to reporters, with guards barring media vehicles from entering or parking there. Airport police with K-9 teams repeatedly inspected the airport grounds, while security personnel were strict in their inspection of passengers and well-wishers at the airport. Pacquiao was scheduled to arrive at 5 a.m. aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR-103, three days after conquering Oscar dela Hoya. He is expected to take a brief rest at a hotel in Makati City before going to Quiapo Church for a thanksgiving mass and a courtesy call on President Arroyo in Malacañang. - GMANews.TV