Manny Pacquiao Returns to Hero's Welcome in Phillippines

While Manny Ramirez struggles with his 50 game suspension from Major League Baseball, Manny Pacquiao is enjoying one of the greatest runs in the history of the sport of boxing - and a global appeal that few athletes ever attain. Inside the ring, Manny Pacquiao is a devastating force, moving up and down weight classes while dismantling and destroying his competition. He has now won six separate world boxing titles throughout his career. And while Pacquiao is no longer a young man by boxing standards, he seems to be at the peak of his abilities.

His most recent triumph was a May 2nd annihilation of top contender Ricky Hatton of Great Britain. Prior to that, he easily dismissed the Golden Boy, Oscar de la Hoya. But more impressive than anything that Pacquiao has accomplished inside the ring is his enormous influence and impact that he holds in his home nation of the Phillippines.

Upon his return home, Phillippine President Gloria Arroyo declared a national holiday and hosted a state luncheon with the fighter, during which she interviewed Pacquiao about his most recent victory. Tens of thousands of Filipino citizens lined the streets as Pacquiao paraded through some of the poorest areas of the country, throwing t-shirts and basking in the adoration of a loving nation.

Pacquiao is the ultimate rags to riches story in a nation that is often battered by political upheaval and natural disasters. He is truly beloved by his fans and the people of the Phillippines in a way that is difficult for Americans to grasp. Many in the Phillippines envision Pacquiao as a future presidential candidate who may lead the nation to prosperity.