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Last Sunday, millions of Filipinos were glued on their TV sets to watch the boxing fight between our dear Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz. Manny, of course, made the country proud again and for at least few hours, we forgot the tragedy brought along by the typhoon Frank.

I really waited for his game, and since the start of the first round, the mismatch between Manny and David was evident. With his speed and mighty punches, Pacquiao KOed Diaz in the ninth round and he become the new World Boxing Council lightweight champion. Not just that, Pacquiao also made history as the first Asian to win world titles in four different weight classes, and the first Filipino to become a lightweight champion! WOW!

However, aside from the power he showed on the ring, I also witnessed his faith. When he went up the ring, he immediately prayed on his corner. He was also wearing a rosary, which of course was taken off during the fight. And when he knocked out Diaz, he again, went to the ring corner and silently prayed and thanked the Lord for his victory. More than the goose bumps I had when our Lupang Hinirang was sang beautifully by a young and pretty Nicole Angela, I was teary-eyed when Pacquiao was declared the winner. Again, it dawned on me the paradox that life is like a boxing match.  What he said during the post-fight interview hit me: “Walang imposible sa Panginoon, kaya magtiwala po tayong lahat.”

You see, I’ve been through a lot of storms lately, both figuratively and literally.  Similarly, many Filipino families are still in mourning because of the tragic loss of hundreds of lives because of the typhoon Frank.  Thank God for Pacquiao, He gave us enough inspiration to be strong during these stormy times - to always have grace under pressure.  More so, thanks Pacman for making the country proud again! Keep it up!