MANNY PACQUIAO AND BLOW-BY-BLOW GOING TO SABLAYAN

 Before becoming a Blow-By-Blow (BBB) boxing sensation, Manny Pacquiao first climbed the ring as a professional fighter at the Sablayan Astrodome in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro. On January 22, 1995—exactly 30 years ago this year—Pacquiao began his professional boxing journey. At just 16 years old and weighing only 106 pounds, the future eight-division world champion and arguably the greatest pound-for-pound fighter in boxing history faced Edmund "Enting" Ignacio in a four-round bout. Pacquiao emerged victorious by unanimous decision, marking the beginning of his legendary career.

Local spectators who witnessed that historic fight recall how the young "Kid Kulafu" showcased remarkable determination and skill, setting the stage for his rise as one of the greatest in the history of the sport.

Sablayan Mayor Walter 'Bong' B. Marquez, himself a boxing enthusiast in his youth, ensured that this milestone would be celebrated grandly during Sablayan's 123rd Founding Anniversary. To honor the 30th anniversary of Pacquiao’s baptism of fire as a professional boxer, the celebration will feature "Manny Pacquiao Presents: Blow-by-Blow," a boxing program rejuvenated by Pacquiao. Notably, this platform was instrumental in catapulting Pacquiao to stardom, paving the way for the wealth and fame he enjoys today.

Blow-By-Blow first aired in 1994 and ran until 1999. It was briefly revived as Blow-by-Blow Reloaded in 2015 but ended in 2016. In November 2022, Pacquiao, through MP Promotions, relaunched the program, which now airs on One Sports television channel.

Through Vice Mayor Edwin N. Mintu, the Sangguniang Bayan of Sablayan passed a resolution declaring Pacquiao an adopted son of the municipality. The resolution reads: “As a world boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao has inspired the people of Sablayan not only through his achievements in the sport but also through his enthusiasm, virtues, hard work, and deep faith in God.”

Mayor Marquez emphasized that hosting this prestigious boxing event aligns with his administration’s vision of making Sablayan the “Mecca of Sports” in the MIMAROPA region.

This monumental event will mark a first in Occidental Mindoro’s history and a chance to solidify Sablayan’s place on the historical map of Philippine boxing. The Blow-By-Blow program will feature two championship fights:

1. Philippine Boxing Federation Super Lightweight Championship – Alvin Lagumbay vs. Pepito Masangkay (10 rounds)

2. Co-Main Event – Jimmy Ramiso Cannu (Quezon City) vs. Sugary Montales (San Pedro, Laguna)

Adding to the excitement, Manny Pacquiao, who has already filed his certificate of candidacy for senator, is expected to grace the occasion, making this a historic moment for the people of Sablayan.