Isabela villagers celebrate Pacquiao win, chant ‘ageless! legend’

An adulating crowd of about 5,000 watches Filipino ring hero Manny Pacquiao go for another title against Keith Thurman at one of several free public viewing venues in Isabela province. VILLAMOR VISAYA

CITY OF ILAGAN–Chants of “Manny! Manny!” filled the venues of free satellite feeds of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s latest ring conquest, a split decision victory over Keith Thurman that added the World Boxing Association’s super welterweight belt to the Filipino boxer’s titles.

At least 5,000 villagers watched the free live feeds here. Hundreds of ofhers watched at free live feed venues in Cauayan City, Santiago City and the town of Roxas.

“Ageless,” “Legend,” were some of the words locals used to express awe at Pacquiao’s newest feat.

Boxing enthusiast Florendo Cuntapay said while Pacquiao won by split decision, it was clear in the fight that Thurman was no match for the Filipino boxing icon now senator. “The Filipino is clear winner,” he said. VILLAMOR VISAYA /TSB