Pacquiao gets honorary doctorate from Manila university

MANILA, Philippines -- Eight-division world boxing champion, senator, and now, doctor in physical education. 

Manny Pacquiao has been conferred an honorary degree of doctor in physical education and sports by the Philippine Normal University on Wednesday. 

In a speech, Pacquiao said he accepts the honorary degree “not simply as a recognition of what I have accomplished in the past, but more importantly, as a responsibility to continue serving our people and inspiring the next generation.” 

“For me, this honorary doctorate is not simply a recognition of what I have achieved. It is a reminder that every blessing comes with a responsibility to give back, to serve, and to help others rise,” he said. 

“This honor reminds me that whatever success we achieve in life should never be the end of our journey. It should become a platform from which we can lift others. Education develops the mind, sports strengthen the body and character, and service gives purpose to achievement,” he added. 

“As we look toward the future, let us work together to build a Philippines where every young person has access to quality education, meaningful opportunities in sports and the arts, and the chance to dream without limits. Let us inspire our youth to become not only successful individuals, but compassionate, disciplined, resilient, and responsible Filipinos.” 

He also emphasized the important lessons sports taught him – discipline, perseverance, courage, humility and resilience. 

“In boxing, you can be knocked down, but the important thing is that you learn how to stand up again and celebrate your vision. And I believe that is also one of the greatest lessons that education can teach us. Life will knock us down many times, but our character is revealed by how we rise,” he added. 

Pacquiao stressed that sports should be an important part of education and mission building. 

“Sports can help our young people develop discipline, teamwork, confidence, leadership, and resilience. It can also give young Filipinos an opportunity to discover their talents and believe in their own potential.” 

Sports, according to Pacquiao, could also help address several challenges in society, such as health and wellness, mental health and inequality. 

“ I believe that every Filipino child deserves an opportunity to discover his or her talent. Talent should not be limited by poverty. Dreams should not be limited by one's circumstances,” he said.

“Education and sports can become powerful instruments of social mobility. They can open doors for young people who may otherwise never have the opportunity to reach their full potential."

PNU Vice President for Academics Dr. Marilyn Balagtas said that Pacquiao’s journey is an enduring testament to discipline, perseverance, courage and resilience -- the" true power of a champion."

“The honoris causa celebrates his contribution to sports primarily in his continued commitment to public service. We are honored with his acceptance of this recognition,” she said. 

The 47-year-old boxer was given the honoris causa degree, as PNU said it “recognizes a life and career characterized by excellence in sports, perseverance, leadership, public service and significant contributions to Filipino society.” 

“It likewise reflects the University’s commitment to recognizing individuals whose accomplishments and contributions embody values that advance education, leadership, sports and nation-building,” PNU posted on Facebook.