In photos: ‘Yolanda’ survivors watch ‘Fight of the Century’

By: Don Lejano - 10 years ago

BANTAYAN ISLAND — Time practically stops in the Philippines every time Manny Pacquiao steps into the ring — this small island in northern Cebu included.

Ravaged by Super Typhoon “Yolanda” (international name Haiyan), the strongest storm to ever hit land, last November 2013, portions of Bantayan Island remain without power.

But through the efforts of the local government and a life insurance company, residents of this island still recovering from the devastation of Yolanda did not miss the so-called “Fight of the Century.”

Cezar Vergano, who lives in a village where electricity has not yet been restored, said he was very happy that he was able to see Pacquiao’s fight live and for free.

“I’m really glad that there was a free viewing like this but it would’ve been better if Manny won,” he said in Cebuano, referring to the Filipino champion’s unanimous decision loss to undefeated American welterweight Floyd Mayweather Jr.

An estimated 2,500 people flocked to the Sta. Fe Sports Complex as early as 7 a.m. Sunday for the Pacquiao-Mayweather free screening organized by the local government and Pru Life UK.

It was the first time for some of these residents to watch a Pacquiao fight–no wonder their eyes lit up with joy and excitement upon seeing the giant screen in front of the sports complex.

The same screenings, which also drew thousands of spectators, were also held in Bantayan and Madridejos, the two other towns of Bantayan Island.

Ranulfo Layam, 70, an avid Pacquiao fan, got teary-eyed after the result of the megabout was announced.

“It’s painful. I woke up at 4 a.m. to pray the rosary. He shouldn’t have lost,” he said in the vernacular.

“I really prayed hard for Manny to win.”

Sure most, if not all, of those who watched got disappointed but the mere experience of seeing the decorated Filipino boxer fighting for glory was definitely a boost for them.

“I hope he comes visit us here,” Vergano said with a grin.

Photo by Don Lejano/INQUIRER.net