China?s Olympic Games Organizing Committee has approved the accreditation of Filipino ring idol and national treasure Manny Pacquiao as flag-bearer of the Philippine delegation to the Beijing Olympics which open on August 8.
Veteran sports official Moying Martelino told Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today that the Philippine request for Pacquiao?s accreditation had been granted and because there was no chance to have his pre-validated card produced and sent on time, the boxing icon would merely have to obtain a visa which should be no problem.
It was President Arroyo who wanted Pacquiao to serve as flag-bearer in Beijing because of his tremendous achievements and his standing internationally as a well-known professional boxer. Pacquiao himself said it was an honor for him to be the flag-bearer and hoped his presence would inspire the Filipino athletes to perform well.
Earlier, Joey Romasanta who serves as spokesman for Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose "Peping" Cojuangco expressed confidence that although the April 15 accreditation deadline had passed the Chinese embassy in Manila was sure to help because it was President Arroyo who had requested that Pacquiao be the Philippine flag-bearer. The president has been a longtime supporter of Pacquiao.
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