Hero’s welcome for Manny

Newly-crowned International Boxing Federation (IBF) superbantamweight champion Manny Pacquiao basked in the glory of his triumph as he was cheered by thousands of adoring countrymen in a motorcade along Metro Manila’s busiest streets yesterday morning.

Pacquiao and wife Jinkee waved to well-wishers in an Ford F-150 truck. Motorists honked their horns. Schoolchildren rushed out of their classrooms. Workers left their offices. Pedestrians stopped in their tracks. It was a reception fit for a king.

Loud speakers were mounted on the truck, blaring music of Pacquiao’s battle song "Eye of the Tiger," replaying the TV annotation of his sixth round stoppage of Lehlo Ledwaba to win the IBF crown in Las Vegas last weekend and echoing the voice of ring announcer Michael Buffer declaring him the new IBF titlist. A huge banner with the inscription "Return of the Champion" ran across the vehicle.

The motorcade started 9 a.m. at the Metro Manila Development Authority office where Pacquiao paid a courtesy call on Chairman Benjamin Abalos. Then the parade turned to Ayala Avenue, Buendia, and Taft Avenue before Pacquiao called on Manila Mayor Lito Atienza at the City Hall where a brass band welcomed the ring hero. Atienza presented Pacquiao with the key to the city and a cash reward.

En route to Malacañang, the motorcade passed along Quiapo, Morayta and Claro M. Recto as fans lined the streets, blowing kisses, shouting Pacquiao’s name, and raising clenched fists.

At the Palace, President Arroyo and son Mikey hailed Pacquiao during a 30-minute meeting. The Chief Executive said Pacquiao is an inspiration to the poor and an example to the youth. She congratulated the fighter for giving honor to the country.

It was a sentimental reunion for Pacquiao and Mikey who have appeared in two movies together. Pacquiao called Mikey, newly-elected Vice Governor of Pampanga, his best friend. The President said she knew Pacquiao from his friendship with her son. She invited Pacquiao to join her in inspiring and spreading goodwill to the urban poor next week.

At Malacañang with Pacquiao were his manager Rod Nazario, Viva Vintage Sports Chairman Vic del Rosario, Viva Vintage Sports Chief Operating Officer Ronnie Nathanielsz, trainer Lito Mondejar, and Games and Amusements Board officials led by Chairman Dominador Cepeda.

This morning, Pacquiao leaves for his hometown General Santos City, where another hero’s welcome awaits him.

Pacquiao and Nazario arrived from the US last Wednesday night. — Joaquin Henson