MANILA -- Filipino boxing great Manny Pacquiao has one advice to Filipino bets who will compete in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) in Vientiane, Laos: believe in the power of faith.

“Kelangang magdasal kayo dahil kahit anong gawin mong pagsisikap, kahit anong gawin mong pae-ensayo, kailangan n’yo ng tulong ng Panginoon,” Pacquiao said late last week during a dinner hosted by the group Pwersa ng Bayaning Pilipino for the SEAG athletes.

Pacquiao, who now holds a record seven world titles in as many weight classes, said he wouldn't be as successful as he is today without his faith.

He added that it has helped him to be confident even while facing tough opponents in the ring.

“Nakita n'yo si Manny Pacquiao umaakyat sa taas ng ring nakangiti, naka-smile… Why? Because I believe God is present,” said Pacquiao.

The Filipino boxer said confidence is a big factor in the performance of every athlete.

“Kelangan din magtiwala kayo sa sarili n'yo, 100 percent. Sabihin n'yo 'kaya ko ito, nag-ensayo ako, para dito," he said.

Athletes who attended the event said the Filipino champ is a big inspiration for them to do well despite the odds in the coming SEAG.

Henry Dagmil, a Philippine veteran in long jump competitions, said Pacquiao’s encouragement is a great morale booster for the RP delegates.

“Encouragement ‘yon, lalo na sa aming mga atleta na kulang sa suporta. Sa mga ganung words lang tumataas na ang morale namin,” he said.

Pencak silat athlete Christopher Yabut, for his part, said Pacquiao personifies the potential of every Filipino athlete.

Yabut said they will carry the image of Pacman winning over a bigger Miguel Cotto in their minds.

“Doon palang naging inspiration na namin siya sa kanyang tagumpay at nakita namin, siya ang halimbawa namin para sa darating na kumpetisyon,” he said.

At least 200 Filipino athletes will fly to Laos in December for the 25th edition of SEAG.

RP aims to improve from its 6th place finish in the 2007 SEAG, which was held in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Thailand.