Filipino soldiers rejoice over Pacquiao's feat

by Frencie L. Carreon

As Manny Pacquiao, a reserved master sergeant of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, won over Oscar dela Hoya in yesterday's so-called 'Dream Match', Filipino soldiers who were watching on and off duty, whether inside military camps in gymnasiums of military headquarters, or simply in their own respective homes, felt proud that the Armed Forces of the Philippines' reserved soldier did the country an honor by earning the World Boxing Championship Title in a well-deserved battle at the ring in the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

In a statement shared by AFP Chief of Staff General Alexander Yano with Zamboanga Today, he said, "We are one with the nation in celebrating the victory of People's Champ Manny Pacquiao. His triumph is a triumph for the whole Filipino people, whom we witnessed to have stood together as one nation to support, cheer and pray for Manny during his fight."

"M/Sgt. Manny Pacquiao's monumental victory has once again inspired the men and women of the AFP to perform their mission with priceless gallantry and courage as protector and defender of the people," Yano said.

Western Mindanao Command chief Marine Lt. Gen. Nelson Allaga said, "Pacman is indeed a super model for the soldier and for every Pinoy for his indomitable courage, ability and determination, along with his sincere preparation, even his faith and prayer. Talagang 'yes, we can!' Kayang-kaya ng pinoy na mag-excel kait saang larangan."

General Santos City-based 6th Infantry Division Commander Army Maj. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer said, "Manny Pacquiao made us really feel very, very proud not only as a Filipino soldier but as as Filipno nation. Indeed, we now have a real hero in Pacquiao. I am proud I am a Filipino."

Air Force spokesman Maj. Gerardo Zamudio shared, "Nakaka-relate ang mga sundalo sa kanya at ang buong Pilipinas dahil ang buhay ay inspirasyon sa lahat ng Pilipino (Soldiers and the entire Philippines can relate with him because his life is an inspiration to all Filipinos)."

The AFP Chief of Staff emphasized that "perceived vulnerability shall never dampen our spirit in accomplishing our mission. With sheer determindation in facing a formidable adversary, we can be victorious. These are the lessons we derive from Manny's victory."

"He also brings prestige and honor to the reserve component. He gives inspiration to all reservists in the AFP and the entire nation," 4th Civil Relations Group commander Maj. Gamal Hayudini shared.

The Pacquiao-dela Hoya match yesterday was watched by millions all over the world.

In Camp Aguinaldo, the match was shown live at the AFP Theater with a P500 viewing fee.

The Western Mindanao Command Gymnasium also set up viewing facilities at the Gymnasium, with no less than Sen. Mar Roxas and WestMinCom chief Marine Lt. Gen. Nelson Allaga leading the viewers. Mayor Celso Lobregat, a reserved Philippine Air Force colonel, joined them in camp during the first game between Medina and Juan Manuel Lopez. Lobregat left ahead though, to watch the dream game elsewhere.

Lt. Gen. Allaga then concluded, "'Pag nagkaisa tayo, uunlad din ang Pilipinas (If we would be united, the Philippines will eventually progress)."

"Mabuhay ka, Manny," General Yano said.