Let the games begin
Pacquiao underscores discipline, focus, resilience in Davraa opening
SENATOR Manny Pacquiao yesterday underscored discipline, focus and resilience to some 8,000 delegates and spectators during his inspirational message in the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet 2018 that opened with little fanfare and without Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.
Pacquiao, embarrassed by the long and comprehensive introduction of a Department of Education (DepEd) official, said, "Remember the importance of following - discipline because without it we can't concentrate in training to achieve our goals; focus, kasi pag wala 'yan our attention will be divided at di mo maibigay and gusto mong performance. When you are focused, you can give more what you want to give; resilience is the ability to rise above a fall, Mag-bounce back pagnatalo."
He recalled how as a child he also wanted to play sports, starting with baseball but stopped when he was hit by the ball and got injured while running towards the first base. He also tried volleyball then basketball, his favorite, before seeing himself as a boxer as he was left with no choice as he needed to help provide the needs of their poor family.
"Tinuod lang ang kinabuhi inyong giagian wala ra jud sa kalisod sa akong naagian. Walay balay... yuta, swerte na makakaon duha ka beses sa isang araw. Unya kamo, masig unsa kalisod ayaw ka discourage, kinahanglan kusog ang inyong determination. Dapat dunay salig sa Ginoo (What you all have been through will not compare to what I experienced. We don't have a house, lot.. we would be happy to eat at least twice a day. So whatever you undergo, you should not be discouraged but instead have the determination and faith in God)," the boxing icon said.
He added that it is possible that the next world boxing champion or Tokyo Olympics medalist will come from Davraa.
He continued, "Posible kaayo nga dunay world-class athlete gikan sa inyong (It is possible that a world class athlete will emerge from this regional meet)."
Pacquiao also reminded athletes to be humble in victory.
Meanwhile, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez shared the 5s in sports - stamina, speed, strength, skill and spirit.
"But the greatest of this is spirit, having a winner's attitude like Senator Manny Pacquiao," Ramirez said, adding that athletes ought to be thankful for the opportunity to play.
Mayor Duterte-Carpio, whose message was read by third district Represenative, Alberto Ungab, welcomed all delegates and extending to them that their stay will be memorable and comfortable.
"We hope you will not just aim to win but also improve your own game. Play your personal best. The ultimate goal is to become the best ever athletes and better persons," the mayor, who had to attend to an emergency situation, said.