MANILA - After a day’s festivities in Metro Manila for his boxing victory over Miguel Cotto, new World Boxing Organization welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao flew to his hometown to greet his province mates, who warmly welcomed him.

At the General Santos (GenSan) City Airport, supporters and fans gathered to welcome Socksargen's (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) favorite son.

From the airport, the Pacman, along with wife Jinkee and mother Dionisia, went around GenSan in a motorcade.

People excitedly greeted the pound-for-pound king, who made boxing history by winning his seventh word title in as many weight classes.

Scholars who receive funds from Pacquiao prepared a special chant for their idol.

"Raise your hands.. That's the way we welcome you. Welcome home Kuya Manny! Congratulations!” said the young scholars.

Pacquiao hollered back: "Salamat! Pagbutihan niyo pag-aaral nyo!"

Hero’s welcome in Sarangani
Another hero's welcome greeted him in Sarangani Province despite his father-in-law's earlier statement that they will boycott Pacquiao over the “Krista Ranillo” controversy.

A feast was thrown for everyone in Pacquiao’s mansion in the couple's hometown, Kiamba.

After a sumptuous meal, the pound-for-pound king headed to the town's plaza for the oath taking of the new members of his political party, “People's Champ Movement”.

Pacquiao is planning to run for Congress in the 2010 elections as representative of the lone district of Sarangani. -- by Anne Santos, ABS-CBN News SOKSARGEN