May 8 a national day in honor of Pacquiao

MANILA, Philippines — Malacaňang has declared May 8 a national day of celebration to honor boxing champion Manny “Pacman" Pacquiao, whose May 3 demolition of Ricky Hatton has elevated him to the ranks of the world’s greatest punchers. In a press conference on Tuesday, Cabinet Secretary Silvestre Bello III explained, though, that that May 8 is not a holiday or non-working day Proclamation No. 1764 directs the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to lead the celebration in Metro Manila, while the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) will coordinate activities in other parts of the country. All government agencies were directed to assist the MMDA and DILG in conducting a successful celebration of Pacquiao's victory against Britain's much-vaunted “Hitman." Pacquiao is expected to return to Manila on Wednesday via the NAIA Centennial Terminal. Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, in crafting Proclamation 1764, said Pacquiao's “spectacular victories show the world the best in the Filipino and that his determination and love of God and country exemplify the indomitable Filipino spirit ... and inspires the Filipinos to have resiliency and dedication to triumph against all odds." Ermita said Pacquiao's victories also highlighted his “highly primed physical and mental slate as a result of his dedicated and Spartan-like training" and his admirable inner qualities. He said Pacquiao starts every fight with a fervent prayer while on his knees and expresses sincere concern for his fallen foes and love for his family, supporters, and the Filipino people. “As a nation's expression of gratitude for bringing worldwide acclaim for the country, it is befitting that a national day of celebration is held to honor him," he said. Bello said May 8 will be highlighted by a motorcade, which is being arranged by Environment Secretary Jose Atienza Jr., and a lunch with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Pacquiao's entourage. He appealed to politicians not to ride on Pacquiao's popularity and let him have his moment of glory. “Siya naman ang nambugbog at nagpabugbog kaya siya dapat ang makinabang," he said. However, he admitted that politicians cannot be stopped from taking advantage of Pacquiao's celebrity status. “Let's just give them the benefit of the doubt," he said. - GMANews.TV