Sadness, disappointment in Philippines after Pacquiao defeat (The Associated Press)

Sadness and disappointment gripped Filipinos after Manny Pacquiao’s defeat in his much-anticipated fight against American Floyd Mayweather Jr. but they still considered the boxing icon a national hero. Gymnasiums and other public venues where the 12-round fight was shown for free on Sunday lunchtime local time were quickly vacated after it was announced Pacquiao lost by unanimous decision. Herminio Coloma, a spokesman for President Benigno Aquino III, said ”the country still holds its head high in the admirable fight of our National Fist.” He said Aquino thanked Pacquiao, who is also a congressman, for being ”an inspiration to every Filipino who is struggling with life’s challenges to achieve a bright future.” Some fans said Pacquiao should retire from boxing while others demanded a rematch. Roland Purificacion, a 45-year-old pedicab driver who watched the fight on a huge television screen outside the Quiapo Church in central Manila, was disappointed but spoke for many of his compatriots when he said Pacquiao ”is still the people’s champ.