Senator Manny Pacquiao flew to the Cayman Islands last January 6 to host the Island Rumble Boxing Challenge on January 7 at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex in capital city George Town.
Senator Pacquiao was invited by Island Rumble organizers Cayman Mardi Gras, in partnership with the Cayman Islands Ministry of Sports and Ministry of Tourism.
In this whirlwind tour of Cayman Islands, he met dignitaries, mingled with fans, and was the VIP at the island’s boxing event.
Over 3,000 spectators turned up to see WBO welterweight titlist and eight-division world champion while Cayman’s amateur pugilists provided some action in the ring.
Senator Pacquiao gamely posed for selfies, signed autographs for boxing fans and spoke to crowds composed of Caymanians and Filipinos vowing that he will return soon with family to “enjoy the beauty of the Cayman Islands and also the hospitality, generosity and friendship of the people here.”
Senator Pacquiao’s 48-hour itinerary began with a visit of the Government Administration Building where he was met by Cayman Island Premier Alden McLaughlin.
He also went on a tour of Health City Cayman Islands in East End where opened discussions with hospital executives regarding the prospects of establishing a mutually-beneficial and long-term partnership aimed at providing cardiac care to poor Filipino kids.
He was also a guest of honor at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Bodden Town Boxing Gym, which aims to train a new breed of world-class champions, as well as promote sports tourism in the islands.
Senator Pacquiao left the Cayman Islands on Monday, having impressed everyone with his friendly demeanor and willingness to engage with all he met.