AFP airing Pacquiao-Thurman fight live for soldiers, dependents

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will hold a free live screening of the Manny Pacquiao-Keith Thurman fight at Camp Aguinaldo today.

AFP Public Affairs Office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said the screening will allow troops and their dependents to cheer for the Filipino boxing icon as he goes up against the undefeated world welterweight champion in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Detoyato said live screening would be held at AFP general headquarters at the Security Escort Group Mess Hall and at the AFP Commissioned Officers Club.

The Philippine Army allocated three venues –Ricarte Hall of the Army Clubhouse, Multi-Purpose Hall of the Army Hospital, and Army Wellness Center – where soldiers and their dependents as well as military reservists can view the fight for free.

The AFP Medical Center will also air the fight at its auditorium at the key military facility in Quezon City in real time.

Detoyato added the Philippine Air Force is also airing live the fight at its gymnasium in Villamor Air Base in Pasay City and in all its major air bases across the country, as will the Philippine Navy.

“On behalf of every soldier, airman, sailor and marine, I wish Manny Pacquiao all the best in this fight and thank him for the honor he has brought with his unmatched accomplishments in the boxing ring,” AFP chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. said.

“Sen. Pacquiao’s hard work, perseverance and excellence in both boxing and public service have inspired our soldiers and we hope that this gesture will further motivate our men and women to continue to do the same for their country,” he said.

The boxing legend and the senator is also an Army reservist with the rank of colonel.