By Jason de Asis

Sen. Francisco 'Kiko' Pangilinan said declaring Pacquiao as the greatest among Filipino athletes is a fitting coronation for his incredible ring exploits. The declaration was contained in Senate Resolution 280 which he filed in the Senate.

Pangilinan said Pacquiao has brought so much pride and honor to the country by breaking world records and becoming the first boxer in history to win eight world titles in eight different weight divisions. He said Pacquiao is now in the same league as Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, Mike Tyson, even Muhammad Ali.

“He is already one of the best boxers of all time, but to us he is the greatest Filipino athlete ever," he said.

Pangilinan, who also filed a resolution in the 14^th Congress commending highest national honors on Pacquiao, says the congressman from Saranggani has transcended the sport he has excelled at and united the country at a time when it needed it the most.

"Aside from possessing incredible talent and dedication in his sport, Manny exhibited great magnanimity in his last fight in that he could have easily pummeled Antonio Margarito, but instead allowed the other fighter to finish the bout with his pride intact. He has shown compassion, heart and humility we can all emulate and that is what sets him apart from the rest,” he added.

He added that Manny’s milestones in the ring and his humility has become a beacon light that inspires the whole country, “lifting our spirits and allowing us to look at ourselves in a better light, “in the midst of political and economic problems the nation is currently facing.

“Even if Manny chooses to retire now, he would still be the greatest Filipino athlete as he has nothing else to prove in his illustrious career,” he ended. (Jason de Asis)