Pacquiao leads Pinoys’ appreciation of Donaire

Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao led the way in congratulating Nonito “The Filipino Flash" Donaire, Jr. for giving pride and honor to the country by beating an inflated Rafael Concepcion and winning the WBA interim superflyweight title.

“Ako’y proud doon sa iyong naging tagumpay. Hanga ako sa doon sa last fight mo," Pacquiao personally told Donaire, whom many consider as his heir apparent, when they met at the GMA Network Studios.

Donaire was equally thankful to Pacquiao, saying the reigning pound-for-pound king served as a model and inspiration.

“Noong bago pa ako, nakita ko yung hardwork mo, sabi ko sa sarili ko kailangan ganyan ko ako. Without your guidance, kung hindi kita nakita noon, walang Nonito Donaire," the 26-year-old Donaire told his idol.

Currently rehearsing for his stint in the upcoming reality singing contest Celebrity Duets, Donaire even obliged to give Pacquiao a sampling of his vocal skills, rendering his own version of “Because of You."

Donaire, along with his wife Rachel, arrived from Las Vegas early Tuesday and went straight to GMA Network, where he received a warm welcome from executives led by GMA Network chairman, president and CEO Felipe L. Gozon. After a courtesy call on officials, a rehearsal for Celebrity Duets, and a press conference, Donaire paid Pacquiao a visit at the GMA Network Studios, where the "Pacman" was taping for his sitcom.

On Wednesday, Donaire was feted by Manila via a victory motorcade around the capital.

Holding aloft his WBA belt and wearing a Philippine-themed jacket, Donaire toured the various districts of Manila and got tremendous reception from appreciative Manileñoes, some of whom flashed the “Laban" sign and showered the champ with yellow and white confetti in reference to his dedication of the fight to the late former President Corazon Aquino.

A similar parade is being prepared by Quezon City for Donaire as part of its 70th founding anniversary celebrations.

Likewise, a meeting with the Aquino family is being set, according to GMA News' John Consulta. Donaire plans to present the yellow robe and trunks (with the name Aquino printed at the back) which he used during his duel with Concepcion in tribute to Mrs. Aquino. - GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/170171/Pacquiao-leads-Pinoys-appreciation-of-Donaire