Philippine Politicians Wants to Watch Pacquiao Live at Las Vegas

MANILA, NOVEMBER 4, 2009 (STAR) Lawmakers and other public officials planning to watch live the much-awaited bout between Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao and Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas should be sensitive to the plight of Filipinos still reeling from the devastation caused by the recent severe weather disturbances, a Palace spokesman said yesterday.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo issued the statement following reports that at least 20 congressmen are expected to watch the fight that could cost thousands of dollars per head depending on the air fare and hotel accommodations.

She said the Palace is joining the rest of the people in wishing Pacquiao victory over his opponent.

Pacquiao is slated to challenge Cotto for the latter’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight belt on Nov. 15 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Fajardo said she was not aware of any member of the Cabinet watching the fight. It was not also clear whether First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, a huge Pacquiao fan, would go to Las Vegas.

“I think they (lawmakers and other public officials) are mature and responsible individuals and they know what their priorities are, like pending bills,” she said. “They should know if they have to leave the country or not.”

“We can support Manny Pacquiao in other ways. We don’t need to go there (Las Vegas) to give our moral support,” she said.

Fajardo said their respective constituents would be the first to judge the actions of their representatives.

“I’d like to believe that they should be sensitive, especially with regard to their constituents, especially that the elections are approaching,” she said.

She stressed that unlike Cabinet officials, members of Congress are not required to seek permission from Malacañang when traveling abroad.

“Everyone also has the right and to go abroad and to watch Manny Pacquiao if they want to. For as long as they do not neglect their work here or in their respective agencies,” she said.

“I’m not saying they should stay. As I said it is their decision, not ours,” she said.

“But we just wish Manny Pacquiao well and we’re praying for him. We hope that he knows that his countrymen are all supporting him,” Fajardo said. – Paolo Romero

This article is from www.newsflash.org

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