Roach happy Manny wants home training

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao’s decision to train in seclusion in General Santos City instead of Manila is music to the ears of Freddie Roach.

“At first he said he wanted to train in Manila. But everybody was pretty much against it,” said Roach in a recent conversation with The STAR.

But Pacquiao decided by himself that if he wanted to focus on training, he must do it in General Santos where there are less distractions. He is now in his first week of training for the Nov. 23 match with the undefeated Chris Algieri.

At first, Pacquiao said he wanted to train in Manila so at the same time he can join his team gearing up for the new season of the Philippine Basketball Association.

It was even mentioned that he wanted to train in a facility where there’s a basketball gym and a boxing gym who he could juggle both worlds.

The 35-year-old boxer was drafted by KIA Motors in the PBA, and will serve as only the third Filipino playing-coach the history of the league.

Roach was glad that Pacquiao realized the importance of focusing in boxing.

“He made the decision himself. There was no need for me to convince him. And I’m happy with that,” said Roach, who’s expected to arrive in the Philippines on the first week of October.

Right now, Pacquiao is flexing his muscles in training under Buboy Fernandez.

“He knows that he has to focus on this fight that’s why he decided to train in the province,” said Roach.

But Pacquiao may have to seek permission from Roach because on Oct. 4 his Kia Motors squad will play in an official pre-season match in Manila, and the latter said he wanted to be with his team.

Pacquiao said he also wants to see action in the PBA season that unfolds Oct. 19.

“I’m looking forward to the camp in General Santos. Manny knows he has a tough opponent and he will train the best he can,” Roach added.