Solar still the TV partner of Pacquiao, says COO

MANILA, Philippines – Solar Entertainment Corp. on Monday reiterated that it remains the partner of Manny Pacquiao as far as coverage of his fights go, denying a newspaper report which claimed that boxing’s pound for pound kingpin is severing ties with the company. In a statement, Solar chief operating officer Peter ChanLiong said: “Solar reiterates that the company has over two years remaining on a four-year license agreement with Manny Pacquiao and MP Promotions expiring on May 6, 2011, which remains in full force and effect." As the legal TV partner, Solar will thus continue to air Pacquiao’s highly-anticipated fight with Ricky Hatton on May 2 on GMA 7, its chosen network, as well as future fights of the four-division champion over the next two years. “It is Solar’s decision as to which television network it wishes to air Pacman’s fights. As customary courtesy, Solar advices Pacman on the television network to be used as the host broadcaster, however, Solar has the final decision per our legal prerogative as the rights holder," ChanLiong added. The Solar COO gave the statement to clear the air after a newspaper report that came out Monday asserted that Pacquiao and Solar are headed for splitsville with the boxing champ supposedly looking to hook up with another TV network for the Hatton coverage. –GMANews.TV