Thrilla in Malacañang: Pacquiao pays courtesy call on President Marcos Jr.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday welcomed boxing icon and former Senator Manny Pacquiao in Malacañan Palace, where the “People’s Champ” presented a pair of autographed boxing gloves, his World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight championship belt, and memorabilia for the upcoming golden anniversary celebration of the historic “Thrilla in Manila.”

The visit came ahead of the 50th anniversary of the legendary heavyweight clash between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, held on October 1, 1975 at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Widely regarded as one of the greatest bouts in boxing history, the “Thrilla in Manila” remains a cultural landmark for the Philippines.

Pacquiao, the only boxer to win world titles in eight divisions, personally handed the items to the President as symbols of the country’s rich boxing legacy. Marcos, who fondly recalled meeting Muhammad Ali during a training session in his youth, gamely demonstrated a boxing stance during the courtesy call.

The President also expressed his support for the 50th Anniversary commemoration, set on October 29 at the Araneta Coliseum, noting that the event serves not only as a tribute to the sport but also as a celebration of the Philippines’ place in boxing history.

Philippine People's Press | In Truth We Prevail