Mommy D relieved over Manny's plan to retire

MANILA, Philippines – It looks like Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao’s prayers have finally been answered with her son, Manny, seriously mulling over retiring from boxing by 2013.

She couldn’t be more grateful over the news. Although she’s been supportive of her son throughout his career, Mommy D has always been vocal about her wish for the boxing superstar to hang his gloves up.

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa Panginoon. Maraming, maraming salamat sa Diyos na mag-retiro na siya,” she said in an interview with “TV Patrol,” Feb. 15.

Manny’s recent spiritual rebirth seemed to have broadened his perspective not only in boxing but life in general. The fierce fighter is now regarded as a “Bible ambassador,” sharing the holy word to his family, peers, and anyone with a willing ear.

“Nakokonsensiya nga ako eh, ‘pag iniisip ko lalaban ulit ako tapos magsusuntukan kami ng kalaban ko. Sinasabihan ako na, ‘Tama na ‘yan, kasi hindi maganda dahil nagsasakitan kayo,’” said he.

He assured, though, that his match with American boxer Timothy Bradley, Jr.—set on June 9 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada—will push through.

Mommy D is likewise happy over Manny’s spiritual growth, turning away from his vices such as drinking and gambling. He also plans to shut his bar down, and has already given away his roosters, which he uses for cockfighting.

Apparently, the “Pacmom” has prayed for her son’s change for the better.

“Iyak ako, iyak. Nakaharap sa altar...” she told “TV Patrol” in another interview, Feb. 13.

Meanwhile, Mommy D had a good time on Valentine’s Day even without a date. She danced and bonded with her friends at a resto bar in General Santos City.

She also enthused about receiving gifts from her pals.

“’Yung pinakamalaking teddy bear, [galing] sa mga friends ko galing Polomolok (South Cotabato),” said she with a wide smile.

source: mb.com.ph