Pacquiao thanks Filipinos for support in bout vs Broner

Manny Pacquiao celebrates his win against Adrien Broner in the WBA welterweight title boxing match Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019, in Las Vegas (Jan. 20 in the Philippines). (Photo by JOHN LOCHER / AP)

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Manny Pacquiao on Monday thanked Filipinos and his colleagues for their support in his World Boxing Association welterweight title defense against American challenger Adrien Broner last Jan. 19 in Las Vegas (Jan. 20 in the Philippines).

“I deeply appreciate your prayers, your love, and support,” Pacquiao said in a manifestation on Monday at the Senate, the first session he attended after his bout in Las Vegas.

“Kayo pong lahat ang aking inspirasyon,” Pacquiao said.

[All of you are my inspiration.]

READ: Still the champ: Manny Pacquiao keeps welterweight title, outpoints Adrien Broner

Pacquiao thanked his fellow senators for the “resolution of commendation and congratulations” on his victory that they had earlier adopted.

READ: Angara files resolution citing Pacquiao win over Broner

In his manifestation, the senator also expressed joy as the Philippines celebrated National Bible Day on Jan. 28, the last Monday of the month.

President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law Republic Act No. 11163 on Dec. 20, 2018, declaring National Bible Day as a special working holiday.

“As the main author and sponsor of this legislation, I am grateful for the support of all our colleagues, partners, and staff in the Senate and the House of Representatives,” Pacquiao said. “The National Bible Day will be an annual celebration. In the coming years, we will make the celebration bigger.”

He then invited Filipinos to celebrate the holiday in their “own special way.” /atm