Team Pacman revs up Baguio training

BAGUIO CITY , Philippines  – Manny Pacquiao turned on the heat in the country’s summer capital yesterday as he opened his seven-week training for his May 7 fight with Shane Mosley in Las Vegas.

The 32-year-old pound-for-pound champion arrived in Baguio late Sunday evening.

Pacquiao went to bed as soon as he settled down inside his suite at the Cooyeesan Hotel along Naguilian Road, and got up early for the start of his high-altitude training.

According to his Filipino trainer, Buboy Fernandez, the world No. 1 was out on the road early, and they went straight to the famous Burnham Park.

Pacquiao did 15 rounds of the 400-meter Burnham Lake, drawing fans and fellow runners to his side.

But they all failed to keep up with Pacquiao.

In the afternoon, Pacquiao went to the Shape Up Gym located on the second floor of the hotel he’s staying at and worked out for almost two hours.

Nonoy Neri, another member of Team Pacquiao, said the fighting congressman from Sarangani did seven rounds with the mitts with Freddie Roach.

Strength and conditioning coach Alex Ariza also worked on the reigning welterweight champion.

“It was a good session,” said Neri, adding that nothing seemed to change with the way Pacquiao hit the mitts.

“Madiin pa din. Nandoon ang diin,” said Neri.

Roach said the first week of training will be devoted to getting Pacquiao shake off the rust before they start with the hard grind.

Sparring should begin next week, with partners Shawn Porter and Dave Rodela expected to come in anytime from Los Angeles.