Pacquiao arrives sans fanfare

MANILA, Philippines — He may have lost his battle inside the ring, but Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao believes he remains a wi nner in the eyes of God and the Filipino people.

Paquiao arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport early Saturday morning, a week after his defeat to American Timothy Bradley.

“It’s okay. In the heart of God and the Filipino people, I am the winner,” he said as he thanked the Filipinos for their support and prayers.

Pacquiao lost to Bradley via split decision last Sunday in Nevada, USA. The result of the controversial match, which ended Pacquiao’s remarkable seven-year unbeaten run, was met with widespread criticism.

But Pacquiao said he has no hard feelings over his loss to Bradley.

“It’s not a problem with me. I don’t think I lost anything,” he said in Filipino when asked if he felt any different now that he has not brought home any championship belt.

He thanked the Filipinos for their support and prayers but urged them to move on and accept the verdict.

“I really thank you for your support, but let’s just forget what happened and accept it wholeheartedly. God has a good plan for us; plan to prosper us and not to harm us; plan to give us hope in the future. God is good all the time,” he said.

“I’m so happy and excited because God has a good plan for me. My plan may not be good but His plan is good and I’m excited for that,” he added.

Unlike in the past, Pacquiao’s arrival statement Saturday was preceded by a prayer offered by a pastor from General Santos City.

A welcome banner bearing the message “Welcome home Manny, ang aming kampeon [our champion],” greeted him at the airport.

Another banner carried by a group of his supporters read “Manny Pacquiao, boxer of the century.”

He was a lso welcomed by former Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, among others./inquirer