It's sometimes amazing how powerfully sports can influence our perspective on life.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo called Manny Pacquiao to congratulate him on his win against Oscar De La Hoya in a high-profile boxing match in Las Vegas.
"The winnings of Manny Pacquiao always come at the proper time," Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said. "We have this economic downturn, suddenly the morale of the Filipino people is promptly boosted."
De La Hoya has become the richest and most marketable star in boxing during a 16-year span. He had a big reach advantage and towered over Pacquiao, setting off fears he could outpunch the Filipino.
Pacquiao came up two weight classes to fight De La Hoya and raised his record to (48-3-2, 36 knockouts). De La Hoya (39-6) dropped down to meet him at 147 pounds.
During the bout, many of the usually bustling Manila streets were empty of traffic and police reported few crimes. When De La Hoya declined to come out after the eighth round, the cheering and jeers rose to a roar in many parts of the country. Fans yelled Pacquiao's name, waved Philippine flags and threw punches in the air.
"His triumph is again a great unifier of Filipinos," Arroyo spokesman Jesus Dureza said. "While he was an underdog to bookies and matchmakers abroad, he was already a winner to all Filipinos."
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