FORMER Senator and Alyansa senatorial candidate Manny Pacquiao has pledged his support for young boxers in Bacolod City through education and grassroots sports development.

Pacquiao visited the boxing training camp in Negros Occidental Capitol, where he met with youth boxers from Victorias City, home to promising fighters under the mentorship of Mayor Javi Benitez.

During his visit, Pacquiao listened to the stories of the young boxers, offering encouragement and announcing plans for scholarship grants and sports education programs to uplift underprivileged youth through boxing.

“Sports, especially boxing, is not just a way out of poverty. It’s a way to study, learn discipline, and become a good citizen,” Pacquiao said.

“I will make sure that aspiring athletes like you get the support you need—not just in the ring, but in school and in life,” he added.

Pacquiao also committed to pushing for improved sports infrastructure in local communities, emphasizing the need for government support to help young athletes reach their full potential.

Benitez praised the initiative, stating that the partnership between local government and national leaders like Pacquiao can build a stronger foundation for youth development in Negros Occidental.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson and local leaders are rallying behind Pacquiao’s Senate comeback, uniting for a shared vision of countryside progress, free housing, sustainable livelihoods, and youth sports development.

Pacquiao’s visit to Bacolod City is part of his ongoing nationwide campaign to promote education and sports as key drivers of youth empowerment and poverty alleviation.