July 08, 2006

By DYAN CASTILLEJO-GARCIA
with JACKIE CASTILLEJO

This is Sports Unlimited’s "Pacquiao versus Larios" post-fight special. We’ll be your VIP access to everything that went on before, during and after the fight.

On the day of the fight, Manny was up early. He did some stretching and got some nourishment for his body and soul. The vibe I was getting from Manny during that morning was full of eagerness and excitement. I knew he was enthusiastic to fight in front of his fellowmen. Manny repeatedly said that next to God, he draws his drive and strength from the Filipino people. He delights in the title “People’s Champion.”

Coach Freddie Roach said it was hard for him to imagine anyone stopping Manny at that point. He said he was even in better shape than when he fought Erik Morales last February. According to him, he has never seen a fighter so focused--a fighter with such natural feel and flair as Manny.

No matter who you are, what your status is—whether you are a celebrity, a politician, a man on the street, a sports enthusiast, a dad, a mom, or a kid, there is one thing we all have in common—our “Pacman Pride.” Although we live different lives and we have our differences, watching Manny fight never fails to unite us and bring us together. Even those who couldn’t make it to Araneta Coliseum during Manny’s fight were one with everyone else in watching him on television. Manny’s non-stop punching style looks good on TV. No doubt about that.

Pacquiao’s wins are the Filipinos' too. When Manny Pacquiao wins, our race elevates with him on the world stage. Whenever Manny succeeds and feels happy with himself, he is happier for the people who give him the reason to celebrate.

Manny “the Pacman” Pacquiao is the epitome of the modern-day Filipino hero. Who wouldn’t love him? He is a boxer, a fighter and a true Pinoy.