Pacquiao now Sarangani's 'walking tourist attraction'

MANILA, Philippines - Residents of Sarangani now considers world boxing champion and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao as a “walking tourist attraction” because the boxer is very popular among local and international tourists. “We now declare him as a “walking tourist” attraction because local and international tourists from different places, some of them are by batches, really come just to see him (Pacquiao), have autographs and pictorial with him,” said Mayor Tata Yap of Glan town, Sarangani.

Yap told The STAR that even in Pacquiao’s mansion at Barangay Lagao in General Santos City, tourists patiently wait in line to have a photo opportunity with the boxing sensation.

“Wherever he goes, he is always mobbed by people who want to see him including children, though some of them have seen him many times but still they are eager to see him,” Yap said.

“He (Pacquiao) is a big help to our tourism at talagang kumikita ‘yung mga hotels at restaurants dahil sa pag-dagsa ng mga turista na gusto siyang makita ng personal. Mas pinupuntahan pa siya nga­yon kesa sa mga natural tourist spots natin.”

British tourist Aldrin Malcom said he went to General Santos City just to see and have pictorials with Pacquiao.

 “Pacquiao is very well known but low profile, kind and very charismatic guy. I really came here dying to shake his hands and some picture-takings with him,” Malcom said.

Pacquiao had attended the turnover ceremonies of the multi-million school buildings he donated from his personal money for his constituents in Sarangani. The boxing champion also hosted thanksgiving parties in different municipalities of Sarangani.