World champ calls for peace, end to RP political turmoil

The country’s never-ending political troubles make World Boxing Council light flyweight champion Brian Viloria wish there is a match Filipinos can watch everyday and unite them for a single cause.

"The Hawaiian Punch" met with President Arroyo at the Palace yesterday and was treated with small pieces of sponge cakes with panda icing the shape of his championship belt as tribute for his successful fight last February.

The President’s gift to Viloria was presented by the Palace chefs.

Mrs. Arroyo congratulated Viloria as she told him "we’re proud of you." Viloria was able to defend his title after defeating Mexican Jose Antonio Aguirre in a bout in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Filipino-American told reporters said he was aware of the developments in the country and that he had been praying for an end to the political turmoil.

"Everyone’s praying for the Philippines…we don’t want any more political turmoil," he said.

Viloria expressed hopes the Filipinos could get together and forget about their political leanings like what they used to do to cheer for a Filipino athlete like him or the "people’s boxing champion" Manny Pacquiao.

"It (the situation) kinda makes us wish that we can fight everyday so everyone can just, you know, live in peace," Viloria said.

He said it would be best if Filipinos would think of the country most of the time just when athletes fight and do their best to represent the Philippines.

Viloria said like Pacquiao, he would not mind using his influence over people, like going to every military camp, to promote peace and unity. He said all sectors of society, including sports, get affected and pulled down by political turmoil.

On a lighter note, Viloria said he was happy to see the President’s surprise for him, referring to the cakes.

"It almost looks like my belt…I’m kinda hungry right now so I might take a bite," he said.