'Pacman' joins Batangas Alay Lakad, donates P200,000

BATANGAS, Philippines  – World boxing champion and Sarangani Rep. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao joined the Alay Lakad in Batangas yesterday morning and donated P200,000 for its various projects.

Norbert Maligaya, director of the Alay Lakad Foundation Inc. in Batangas, said Pacquiao gamely joined the walk-for-a-cause with around 8,000 participants from different schools, non-government organizations, local government units and the Philippine National Police.

Maligaya said the foundation was able to raise at least P1.3 million, including Pacquiao’s hefty contribution.

Pacquiao was welcomed by Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, Vice Gov. Mark Leviste and other government officials, including Optical Media Board chairman Ronnie Ricketts.

The governor’s son, actor Luis Manzano, comedian Dinky Doo and actress-politician Angelica Jones were also present in the event.

Maligaya said Pacquiao did not join the walk, but instead made a short speech to all the participants in front of the provincial capitol.

Pacquiao, in his speech, encouraged everyone to join hands in supporting Alay Lakad projects for the benefit of the out-of-school youth.

He also asked everyone to offer prayers for his upcoming bout against Juan Manuel Marquez III on Nov. 12 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Pacquiao stayed in Batangas for two hours and immediately left after the program.

Maligaya said business magnate Manny Pangilinan failed to join the Alay Lakad but promised to send his support to the foundation.

Maligaya said they will use the funds for their various projects such as the skills training program for out-of-school youth and for their scholarship program.

“As of today, we have already 105 scholars who will benefit from a full scholarship program until they reach college,” Maligaya said. “With the support we are getting, we will be able to get additional scholars for the next school year.”

Various schools in the province such as Lyceum of the Philippines, University Batangas, University of Batangas, Westmed International School, St. Brigette School, and Batangas State University sent their students to join the walk-for-a-cause.

The Department of Education contingent received the most number of awards, including Best in Uniform and biggest delegation.