Manny, CJ to get cash incentives

In one of the highlights of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Annual Awards Night, professional boxer Manny Pacquiao and bowler CJ Suarez will receive cash incentives from an American insurance company, which loves and supports sports.

According to PSA President Roberto Cuevas of the Manila Standard, John Hancock Insurance Co. will give P50,000 each to Pacquiao and Suarez for winning the Athlete of the Year award bestowed annually by the country’s oldest media organization.

"We, in the association, are grateful that John Hancock is giving incentives to our Athlete of the Year awardees. It’s a big honor to be a partner of this prestigious company in this worthy endeavor," said Cuevas.

The good news was relayed to Cuevas recently by John Casey, president and CEO of John Hancock Insurance Co. (Philippines), an American firm providing assistance to some local tournaments, including triathlon.

The event is set this Friday night at the Manila Pavilion with no less than the First Couple, President Arroyo and First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, expected to grace the occasion.

At the same time, Cuevas said that honorees and guests who did not receive their invitations are advised to get theirs at the reception area of the grand ballroom during the awards night.