GMA leads Palace hero's welcome for Pacquiao

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Thursday led a hero’s welcome in Malacañang for Manny Pacquiao, WBC International Super Featherweight Champion.

The Filipino boxer returned to the country at dawn today after winning his Las Vegas bout with Mexico’s Marco Antonio Barrera last Saturday.

President Arroyo met Pacquiao and his party around 10:30 a.m. at the Palace.  The boxer was accompanied by his wife Jinky, Environment Secretary Lito Atienza and Ilocos Sur politician Chavit Singson.

"Filipinos nationwide celebrate the recent victory of the boxer with the national fists," Pres. Arroyo said, adding that Pacquiao and the Filipino is truly world-class.

The President also conducted an interview with Pacquiao, asking him about his religiosity and his habits before a fight.