Manny’s victory lifts spirits of typhoon-ravaged Philippines

Published:2013-11-24 18:35:28    

International: The storm-battered Philippines was celebrating a much-needed victory Sunday after national boxing hero Manny Pacquiao defeated American Brandon Rios in a comeback fight he dedicated to victims of Super Typhoon Haiyan.

For a brief moment in the devastated city of Tacloban, those who lost their homes, their livelihoods and even loved ones in the storm forgot their misery as they watched a free, live broadcast of Pacquiao's overwhelming points victory over Rios in Macau.

"I'm so happy that he won. This is a win for all Filipinos. It will surely uplift our spirits, especially the victims of typhoon (Haiyan)," said Mario Penaflor, 41, amid the joyful crowds in Tacloban.

Such was the elation that army chief Lieutenant General Noel Coballes said special military honours may be extended to Pacquiao, a reserve lieutenant colonel in the army, for his latest victory.

"We will see what we can give him when he arrives," Coballes said.

"He brought joy to the Filipinos especially during this time of crisis," the general added. AFP

 

Banglasongbad24/raj