Pacman helps cancer patients

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao left his mark in Abu Dhabi, coming in the form of a $50,000 donation to a cancer charity organization based in the UAE capital.

From Dubai, where he played in a PBA game last week, Pacquiao motored to Abu Dhabi with his family and friends during the weekend and joined a charity event.

According to his public information officer, Pacquiao took part in a three-kilometer walk around Yas Marina Circuit and helped raise awareness for the charity event.

Later on, the eight-division world champion, who also came with his wife, Sarangani Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao, was joined by kids up on stage.

Then he issued a check worth $50,000 to the Cancer Patient Care Society (CPCS), and handed it over to Nora J. A-Suwaidi, director general of the CPCS.

The event was part of Rahma, the Arabic word for mercy, which aims to provide practical and psychological support for cancer patients in the UAE.

“Manny Pacquiao’s life is a big inspiration for many of us,” said Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi, chairman of CPCS, in saluting the Filipino icon.

Pacquiao never runs out of ways to help the poor and the needy, including those other than his countrymen.

“His presence at the Yas Marina Circuit was a big boost for the event and helped raise awareness for our charity organization,” added Al-Suwaidi.

It was Pacquiao’s first visit to the UAE, and said it won’t be his last.

“I have found good friends here in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They treated us with utmost hospitality. I’m looking forward to spending a private vacation here with my family during the Christmas season,” he said.

From Abu Dhabi, Pacquiao and his entourage of around 25 flew to Athens, Greece, and visited ancient Acropolis and other historic sites.

Then from Dubai, they were scheduled to fly to Israel, the Holy Land.

While in Dubai, Pacquiao briefly spoke of his next fight, tentatively set April 9. He said he’s considering fighting in Dubai, home to around 450,000 Filipinos.

Pacquiao said nothing is certain, and negotiations are still on. It could be a fight against Amir Khan, Terence Crawford, Tim Bradley or even Floyd Mayweather Jr.