MANILA -- Sen. Manny Villar said the government is overlooking the importance of sports in uplifting the country’s spirit, which in turn could lead to a more productive nation.

“Nakikita ko ang sports ay isa lang sa konting paraan para mabuhay ang pagmamalaki ng mga Pinoy,” said Villar during the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum at Shakey’s UN Avenue Branch in Manila.

The senator, who dropped by the forum to promote the “Challenge of the Legend” between Efren “Bata” Reyes and Ronnie Alcano, cited Manny Pacquiao’s role in inspiring his countrymen each time he wins his fight.

Villar said the Filipino boxing sensation’s victories have made his countrymen proud.

“‘Yong kay Manny Pacquiao, ‘yon ang pinakamagandang halimbawa. Pagka lalaban si Pacquiao at siya'y nakaka-knockout, iba ang pakiramdam ng bawat isang Pinoy,” said the former Senate president, who is eyeing the presidential seat in the 2010 polls.

“Kaya sa aking palagay, nanghihinayang ako at hindi nagagamit ng pamahalaan ito para mabuhay iyong pride ng Pinoy sa kanyang sarili… ‘pag bumalik ang kumpiyansa sa sarili, palagay ko diyan na tayo aabante at aasenso,” added Villar.

Boost sports

When asked about his own plans for local sports should he win, Villar assured that he will do more than giving out promises.

He said what is more important is that he can back up his talk.

“Ang lahat ng kakandidato sa 2010, lahat iyan nagkukuwento ng plano nila. Pero ang tingin ko ang mahalaga ay kung kaya mong pangatawanan iyong plano mo,” said the senator.

“Ang maganda kung tutulong ka, ngayon na… Sa tingin ko mga 50 taon na tayong nakikinig sa mga plano eh,” added Villar.

The senator said he is doing his part to boost sports by helping billiards.

Villar, in fact, has been sponsoring a multi-leg billiards tournament named after him during the past two years.

“Ganyan din sa larangan ng sports, kahit papaano sinuportahan natin ang billiards. Malaki na ang suporta ko diyan subalit nakikita kong marami pa tayong dapat gawin. 'Yan din ang dapat nating gawin sa lahat ng sports,” he said.