Sunday, December 9, 2012 was a day of mourning for Philippine Sports and the entire nation. The whole nation reacted with shock and sadness as Manny Pacquiao was knockout cold by his long time nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez at the end of the 6th round of their fourth fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, USA.
Manny's defeat dampened the spirits of the Filipinos from all walks of life, from the man on the street, street vendors, drivers, farmers, police and military personnel, and up to the highest corners of government. It was a big blow to a country much worst than those delivered by Pablo-a killer typhoon that left 1,200+ dead or missing and devastated thousands of homes in Mindanao just early last week.
The 39-year-old Marquez sent down Pacquiao, 33, face first to the canvas with a right hand with one second left of the round to win their welterweight fight.
President Benigno Aquino’s spokesman Edwin Lacierda said despite the defeat, the country would not turn its back on the superstar fighter who has won world titles in an unprecedented eight weight divisions.
“Nothing will change. The people of the Philippines will continue to support Manny. We join them in praying for the return of his strength and determination,” Lacierda said in a statement.
The whole nation is indeed behind Manny Pacquiao in Victory and in Defeat! We all know that Manny can't win them all. It was just a matter of time because nobody stays at the top forever.
Guys! We all shared with Manny in his time of triumph and victories. Let's reunite once again and share with him in his time of sorrows and defeat. He is our Sports Hero and will always be that way and nothing can ever changed that.
