PostHeaderIcon Pacquiao among Time Magazine’s most influential people of 2009

At the eve of this fight with British boxing professional Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas, Manny Pacquiao, Philippine’s phenomenal boxing super-star is celebrated among TIME magazine’s 2009 most influential heroes and icons.

Pound for pound, Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer in the world. But even more important than holding that distinction, Manny has connected with the people of his home country, the Philippines, to the point where he's almost like a god. The people have rallied behind him and feel like they're a part of him, because they can see his talent, his dedication, his grace and his class.”---Time (04/30/09, Lennox,L)

The only Filipino in the list, Manny ranks 22nd among celebrities and personalities like Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, US president Barack Obama, conservative radio talk show broadcaster Rush Limbaugh, actor Brad Pitt, Airline pilot Chesley Sullenberger, TV host Oprah Winfrey, and religious leader Rick Warren.

“Only two other athletes landed in the Time 100, top Spanish netter Rafael Nadal (60th) and Olympic hero swimmer Michael Phelps (72nd). Outside the 100 were baseball star Alex Rodriguez and golf great Tiger Woods, who wound up 106th and 134th, respectively.”---GMA.TV. News (04/28/09)

It’s certainly a cause of joy for the multitude of Filipinos who need a boost of hope in the midst of uncertainty and hardship. Pacquiao, aka Pacman, the once unknown 30 year-old from Mindanao, catapulted himself in sports with his expertise and winnings in international boxing. His humble beginnings, generosity, and astounding talent have earned him respect and admiration from his countrymen and his fans worldwide. (Photo Credit: Manresa Class of 1983) =0=

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