Aquino defends Pacquiao amid controversial win

HONOLULU—Defending Manny Pacquiao’s controversial win over Juan Manuel Marquez, President Benigno Aquino III asked Filipinos not to take anything away from the ring icon who rose from adversity to become a world champion.

“Let’s remember where Manny came from, how he shaped himself, how he became a champion and repeatedly became a champion in eight categories,” Mr. Aquino told reporters.

“There are people who admire those who just got lucky. Here, we have someone who strived to reach where he is now and let’s not take that away from Manny,” he added.

Mr. Aquino was also asked about the remarks made by Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach that the Filipino boxer was more powerful than the Philippine president.

“In boxing, most probably,” Mr. Aquino said amid laughter.

Malacañang was unfazed by the controversy raised by Pacquiao’s victory.

“Let me just say this—whether you win by an inch or a mile, you still won. He is the winner,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in Manila. Reports from Norman Bordadora and Christine O. Avendaño