Rivera thanks Pacquiao, celebrates boxer’s colorful career

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY (16 April 2016) - "I personally thank you congressman Manny Pacquiao for bringing honor to Gensan and Sarangani."

This was the message of Mayor Ronnel Rivera during the hero’s welcome for Sarangani Congressman Manny Pacquiao at SM City Gensan last Friday (April 15).

Rivera also commented on the boxing career of Pacquiao which comes to an end after his announcement that he will now retire from boxing.

"Pacquiao has been with us for so many years already. He has his ups and downs, but in his last fight, he showed us that he still got it. But whatever he decides, we will respect it," Rivera said. This statement received cheers and loud applause from the public.

Pacquiao already stressed his desire to retire after his third fight against Timothy Bradley. This declaration was further cemented when he told the crowd that he has to do this for his family.

"It is a request of Mommy D (Dionisia Pacquiao), so this time, I think I have to comply," Pacquaio said. His family, especially his wife, Jinkee Pacquiao, has been wooing Manny to put an end to his boxing career for the sake of his children and future.

"I thank you all for the support you have given me especially in my last fight. I know that many of you have been praying for me. I have seen many posts and videos of me in Facebook from people who support me. Thank you so much," an elated Pacquiao said.

"But I think this is the time to retire and focus on giving service to the people. I want to give houses to those who haven't. I want free education, from elementary to college, to those who cannot afford schooling."

"I can remember the time that we are still poor and always hungry. I see that in our people now. I have to give back," Pacquiao affirmed.

Both Pacquiao and Rivera belong to the People's Champ Movement (PCM)--a political party with area of concentration in Sarangani and General Santos City. Rivera is a re-electionist mayor in Gensan while Pacquiao is trying to win a slot in the Senate.

The two of them came together last 2013 elections when they forged a social contract to institutionalize progress in Gensan and Sarangani. When they won their respective races, they kept their promise and made sure that they will be continuing what they have started.

For Rivera, the continuity of positive changes in Gensan is his main mission. There have been several developments in the city such as the street lighting projects and increase in revenues that Rivera wants to foster in the years to come. (RCR Media)