Champ, Hall of Famer is now Datu Pacquiao

Barely 24 hours after being enshrined into the Elorde Hall of Fame, the new WBC super-featherweight champion received another hero’s welcome, this time in his hometown in Gen. Santos City.

A festive atmosphere greeted Manny Pacquiao and his family at the Gen. Santos City International Aiport, one that would easily top the previous homecomings of the most popular figure in the country today.

From there Pacquiao held a brief press conference, then was brought to Malungon town in Sarangani province where he was conferred the rank of “Datu” by the B’laan Tribe, considered the most dominant group in southern Mindanao.

The 29-year-old boxer was given the name of “Datu Damfel Banwe,” which refers to a person blessed with “katakus, kaisug and kinaadman” which means ability, courage and wisdom.

Pacquiao joined tribe members wearing the traditional garb.

Tuesday evening, at the Manila Hotel, Pacquiao was inducted into the Elorde Hall of Fame by no less than President Arroyo who was special guest in the affair named after the great Filipino boxing champion Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.

The affair started on time, at around 7 p.m., but Pacquiao was caught in traffic somewhere along the way from his hotel in Makati City.

The President was done with her speech, honoring both Pacquiao and Elorde, had handed out seven awards, including one for former world champion Luisito Espinosa, when Pacquiao, surrounded by mediamen, walked into the Centennial Hall of the historic hotel.

Pacquiao was led to the table, which the President occupied with her hosts and a few other distinguished guests. Pacquiao sat beside the President, and they shared some very light moments.