Filipino Pride

Are the Filipino people proud of their country?, of course they are, demonstrated most visibly when watching their national hero Manny Pacquiao box.

Manny fought Ricky Hatton 2 weeks ago and we all know the result, a resounding defeat for the British guy and once again the Philippines can relax in the knowledge that their man is safe and champion still.

Truly the Philippines comes to a full stop when Manny fights, its all anyone wants to talk about for weeks before a fight and the pro's and cons are mulled over. Would Ricky be too strong for Manny? (we didn't find out) would Manny be too quick and skillful for Ricky? (yes for sure)

Manny is without doubt a great fighter and also from what i see a great guy. He came up from a tough life on the streets to become a self made man, this all adds to his charisma. To be honest when i first came across Manny on TV 6 or 7 years ago he was a little rough round the edges, but his english has vastly improved, he comes across as a great guy and is loved here quite rightly. Will he stand for political office after his boxing career, probably, i hope not.

Apart from Manny of course Filipino people are also proud of their country but there is also a very healthy high degree of cynicism on issues like corruption....a quote from a Filipino friend (i won't name) "oh its ok he has lots of money, he works for the government" and also on issues like poverty and some other negatives.

However Filipino culture is strong in Family, in food and in cultural beliefs but utmost and most of all at this moment in Manny Pacquiao.

We got PPV for the fight, didn't really get our monies worth but never mind, i consoled myself with beer and gentle ribbing from my Filipino friends.

I get my own back say when someone gives me an easy point at tennis "very kind to an englishman...not like Manny Pacquiao".

Pictures are just before the fight starts / national anthems, i was too sick to get the camera out after the fight, the rest of the Philippines didn't care for my or any other British wounded pride, why should they, they had their hero safe and victorious.