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Advocates Philippines
Pacquiao Gets PBBM's Support For 50th Anniversary Of 'Thrilla In Manila'
Photo from PCO
Filipino boxing icon and People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao expressed his deep gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for extending all-out support to the upcoming “Thrilla in Manila” 50th anniversary celebration
, set to take place in October.
Pacquiao personally conveyed his thanks during a courtesy call on President Marcos at Malacañan Palace on Thursday. In an interview after the meeting, the eight-division world champion emphasized that the President’s strong backing will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the event.
“This is a huge help, and I’m very thankful for the support of our President. His cooperation, along with various government agencies, is a big boost,” Pacquiao said. “We will do everything to make the 50th anniversary celebration of the Thrilla in Manila a success.”
The commemoration marks five decades since the historic showdown between boxing legends Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, which took place on October 1, 1975, at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila. The week-long celebration aims to highlight Filipino pride and showcase homegrown talent in the sport of boxing.
Pacquiao revealed that the event may feature high-caliber bouts, including possible world title fights. “The President was pleased with the plan. He’s all-out in his support, and I truly appreciate that,” Pacquiao added.
When asked if President Marcos intends to attend, Pacquiao said the Chief Executive showed strong interest. “He’ll be there. He’s very interested in the concept,” he shared.
During the courtesy visit, Pacquiao presented President Marcos with the World Boxing Council (WBC) belt he received from his comeback fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios last July 19 in Las Vegas. He also gave the President a pair of boxing gloves as a token of appreciation.
The “Thrilla in Manila” anniversary event is expected to bring global attention back to the Philippines, celebrating not only a legendary boxing moment but also the country’s enduring love for the sport.
Pacquiao personally conveyed his thanks during a courtesy call on President Marcos at Malacañan Palace on Thursday. In an interview after the meeting, the eight-division world champion emphasized that the President’s strong backing will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the event.
“This is a huge help, and I’m very thankful for the support of our President. His cooperation, along with various government agencies, is a big boost,” Pacquiao said. “We will do everything to make the 50th anniversary celebration of the Thrilla in Manila a success.”
The commemoration marks five decades since the historic showdown between boxing legends Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, which took place on October 1, 1975, at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila. The week-long celebration aims to highlight Filipino pride and showcase homegrown talent in the sport of boxing.
Pacquiao revealed that the event may feature high-caliber bouts, including possible world title fights. “The President was pleased with the plan. He’s all-out in his support, and I truly appreciate that,” Pacquiao added.
When asked if President Marcos intends to attend, Pacquiao said the Chief Executive showed strong interest. “He’ll be there. He’s very interested in the concept,” he shared.
During the courtesy visit, Pacquiao presented President Marcos with the World Boxing Council (WBC) belt he received from his comeback fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios last July 19 in Las Vegas. He also gave the President a pair of boxing gloves as a token of appreciation.
The “Thrilla in Manila” anniversary event is expected to bring global attention back to the Philippines, celebrating not only a legendary boxing moment but also the country’s enduring love for the sport.
Aug 28, 2025
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