Honoring Pacquiao nationwide was ordered by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo through Proclamation No. 1764-A declaring May 11 as National Day of Celebration to Honor Pacquiao as Boxing Legend in the country as he defeated England’s boxing sensation Ricky Hatton last May 3.

Governor Aurora E. Cerilles, representing Zambosurians along with Congressman Tony Cerilles and Mayor Ace William Cerilles, in consonance to the order, preferred to have it beyond fanfare but meaningful during the Flag Raising Ceremony. 

Every Monday, almost a thousand provincial government officials and employees together with personnel of the 8 national line agencies (holding office within the Provincial Capitol Compound) queue for a Flag Raising Ceremony.  The provincial government – executive branch has 17 departments while at the legislative side includes the Vice Governor’s Office and the Office of the Provincial Board and 13 offices of the Board Members.

Provincial Agriculturist Marilyn Bersales whose department hosted the program that time, emphasized that Zambosurians join the entire country in praising Pacquiao as a boxing hero whose love for country and God is beyond compare that bring honor to country after winning 5 consecutive world boxing matches.

Pacquiao’s boxing titles are enumerated as follows: 1) International Boxing Organization (ITO) Junior Welterweight (140 lbs.); 2) World Boxing Council’s (WBC) super-featherweight (130 lbs); 3) WBC’s Lightweight (126 lbs); 4) International Boxing Federation’s (IBF) Super-Bantamweight (122 lbs.); and 5) WBC Flyweight Division (112 lbs).  He even defeated legendary Oscar dela Hoya in a non-title match for 147 lbs.

The national leadership for one, highlighted these spectacular boxing victories of Pacquiao in different weight divisions that inspired Filipinos to have resiliency and dedication to triumph against all odds.

“As nation’s expression of gratitude for bringing worldwide acclaim for the country, it is befitting that a national day of celebration is held to honor him (Pacquiao),” the proclamation stated.  (Remai S. Alejado/Zambosur Press Bureau)

Last update: 16-05-2009 23:26