MisOc lauds Pacman’s win over Margarito

MILLIONS of Filipinos erupted into a fury of joy November 14 following the victory of People’s Champ Sarangani representative Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao over Mexican Antonio Margarito in a fight that brought the nation to a standstill.

Pacquiao fans and supporters were glued to their television sets while others gathered in malls, basketball courts, restaurants and bars to watch the fight on wide screens. They cheered and screamed every time the Filipino boxing icon landed a punch on Margarito.

Pacquiao, 31, took the WBC super welterweight via unanimous decision, becoming the first fighter to win 8 world titles in 8 weight classes.

People in Misamis Occidental were also ecstatic as they applauded Pacquiao and booed Margarito at the Ozamiz City’s Medina Gymnasium and Oroquieta City Gymnasium where the show down was beamed live by Misamis Cable Television sponsored by governor Herminia Ramiro.

In her message, Ramiro said that she sponsored to set up anew a giant screen inside the 6,000-capacity Ozamiz City’s Medina gymnasium and 3,000 capacity Oroquieta City Gymnasium to allow residents who could not afford to pay for the fight’s pay-per-view offers to still witness it live as scheduled.

“I am doing this as support for Manny and as a break for the thousands of our residents here who have been supporting for him to win this fight,” Ramiro said.

Medina and Oroquieta gym were open to the public as early as 7:30 am to allow those who intend to come to settle in early and also watch the under card fights.

In her facebook account, Baliangao municipal mayor Svetlana Jalosjos said she is proud being Filipino.

“Today I'm so proud to be a Filipino...Manny Pacquiao, your skill and personal character in the ring makes you a true champion,” the lady mayor said.

Provincial statistician, Julieto Pilar of National Statistics Office (NSO) said Pacquiao’s speed is the key for the Peoples champ success.

In his observation, Barangay Embargo councilor Job Pototan in Ozamiz City said was determined to win as the bell rings for the first round.

“Pacquiao is the greatest boxer ever,” said Julius Padilla, 43, a radio technician who rushed to Medina gym to watch the bout. (NEPTALIE BATOLENIO)