WBC champ Manny Pacquiao and wife Jinkee react to a question during a press conference at the GMA Network Center in Quezon City Monday.
MANILA, Philippines - Hours after returning from the United States, boxing sensation Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao on Monday morning visited the historic Quiapo Church in Manila to hear Mass amid a throng of supporters welcoming him.
Radio reports said that Pacquiao arrived at the historic site on board a gray sports utility vehicle at 9:05 a.m., along with his wife Jinkee.
Paquiao and his convoy arrived at the church barely 25 minutes after leaving New World Renaissance Hotel in Makati City, where he had breakfast with his family and friends.
Pacquiao arrived aboard Philippine Airlines flight 103 before 7 a.m. Monday and received a warm welcome from well-wishers and supporters.
Radio dzBB said that the supporters, mostly vendors from the vicinity, crowded at the church entrance to get a glimpse of the boxing champ. Although most fans who trooped to the Church were unable to get near the Pacquiao due to the tight security, he still took some time to shake hands with some of his fans.
The special Mass, officiated by Father Frank Villanueva, was held to celebrate his victory over Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez, who previously held the World Boxing Council super featherweight championship title.
A separate report from GMA's Unang Balita earlier said that the Manila Police District has fielded 60 policemen both from its headquarters and its Station 3 to secure Pacquiao's visit at the historic site.
Authorities were also quoted as saying they would be enforcing strict security measures to prevent a repeat of when Pacquiao last visited the Quiapo Church after his fight with Mexican Erik Morales.
Lawmen also assured that they would not only be looking after Paquiao's safety but as well as that of the scores of supporters who greeted Paquiao at the historic site. Environment Sec. Jose "Lito" Atienza also attended the Mass.
In an interview shortly after arriving at the airport, Pacquiao said he would be having a motorcade Tuesday in Quezon City, Manila, Pasay City, and Makati City.
He said he is set to return to his hometown in General Santos City Wednesday even as talks are in progress if he would also be entertaining invitations to drop by Bacolod City in Negros Occidental. - Mark Merueñas, GMANews.TV
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