Palace: Pacquiao proved Pinoys can rise again

MANILA, Philippines - Calling him the symbol of the country's recovery from disasters, Malacañang congratulated Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao for getting back at American fighter Timothy Bradley Jr. in their much-awaited rematch on Sunday.

In a statement, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte applauded the victory of the Saranggani lawmaker whose "strength and skill prevailed" after 12 rounds.

"Manny’s triumph further proves that as long as Filipinos pour their heart and soul into their respective fields and disciplines, they can overcome any and all setbacks and challenges that may come their way," Valte said in the statement written in Filipino.

Pacquiao won in a unanimous decision with three ringside judges scoring 116-112, 116-112 and 118-110 to reclaim the World Boxing Organization Welterweight title.

Read: Pacman’s revenge: Pacquiao reclaims WBO welter title, deals Bradley first loss

With his latest victory, the eight-division world champion avenged his controversial split-decision loss to Bradley in their first meeting in 2012.

Valte said the Filipino champion serves as an inspiration to his countrymen and is now the symbol of the Philippines' recovery from last year's devastating disasters.

"While vicious storms may knock us down, we will always stand back up. The deep faith, solidarity and strength of will of the Filipino people will always prove strong," Valte said.

Pacquiao's revenge against Bradley is also his second consecutive victory after suffering a shocking knockout defeat against Mexican rival Juan Manuel Marquez in 2012. -Louis Bacani