CEBUANOS, GUARDO TO WELCOME DONAIRE!
By Salven L. Lagumbay
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 14 Dec 2007
When world flyweight king Nonito Donaire steps into Cebu anytime soon following his sensational win over Mexican Luis Maldonado, expect no less than royal treatment as sportsman Jonathan Guardo and the Cebuanos plan to roll out the red carpet for the boxing champion and official endorser of the Arthro Kontra Arthritis.
"We will definitely give him a warm welcome. He is a source of pride and joy to every Filipino," Guardo said in an interview yesterday.
Donaire, who will be accompanied by his mother Imelda and girlfriend Rachel "Knockout Queen" Marcial, planed into Manila this morning after a 13-hour flight from San Francisco, California.
"I am very happy to be back in the Philippines again. I can't wait to visit Cebu and thank my friends and fans," Donaire told this writer just moments upon setting foot in the country this morning.
The 25-year-old champion, who stopped Maldonado impressively in the eighth round of their scheduled 12-round war in Connecticut, is slated to fly to Cebu following his hectic schedule in Manila arranged by Solar Sports, which aired his latest fight.
Donaire's arrival at the Centennial Airport in Manila was covered by GMA New's Unang Balita and in the evening, the reigning champion is scheduled to attend a GMA Christmas Party.
Donaire will be a guest this Sunday of GMA's Showbiz Central at 4PM, to be followed by his guesting of a live PBA game.
Solar Sports is also lining up a merchandise shoot with Donaire, as well as other activities throughout the week.
Despite his hectic schedule, Donaire had earlier stated he will visit Cebu to thank his fans and supporters, and find time to visit his ailing grandfather in Talibon, Bohol.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Salven L. Lagumbay.
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