3rd Pacquiao-Elorde Awards night celebrates Filipino champions of heart, grit, and legacy 

It wasn’t just an awards night—it was a gathering of stories that began in struggle and rose into triumph.

The 3rd Pacquiao-Elorde Awards Night transformed the grand ballroom of Okada Manila into a stage for legacy, where champions, trainers, and sporting icons were honored not only for what they’ve won, but for what they’ve endured.

At the center of it all stood boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, whose keynote speech set the emotional tone of the evening. Known for his eight-division world title reign, Pacquiao shifted focus away from belts and victories, and toward something deeper—faith, resilience, and purpose.

“Tonight, we honor warriors, not only for the victories they achieved in their sports, but for the battles they have fought in life. And as I stand before you, I stand not as someone who has found their army, but as a living testimony of God’s grace. I came from nothing. I knew hunger. I knew pain. I knew what it means to sleep without certainty of tomorrow,” he said in his speech.

His message carried through the hall as more than inspiration—it became a reflection of the Filipino athlete’s journey itself.

“True greatness is not about how many championships you win. But about how strong your faith is when the fight is over. Victory is not the belt. Victory is not the title. Victory is not the applause of the crowd. Victory is knowing God. Victory is rising every time you call,” he said.

“To the young people who are here tonight, I want to speak directly to you. I was once like you. No car, no bed. People doubted me. I believe, and more importantly, if I made it, you can make it. Do not let your circumstances define your future. Do not let your struggles stop you. Do not let fear hold you back. Dream big. Work hard. Stay humble. And always put God first,” he said.

“Greatness is not just about achieving success. It is about inspiring others. It is about lifting people up. It is about giving hope.” he added.

The night also paid tribute to the people behind every champion.

In her welcome address, Liza Elorde honored the unseen foundation of Philippine boxing.

“This evening is a tribute to the athletes who carried our flag with pride. To the trainers and managers who guided them. To the promoters and supporters who believed in their dreams. And to every individual who continues to uplift the sport of boxing in our nation,” she said.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

LOOK: Emotional moment on stage as former world champion Rolando Navarrete witnesses his son, Rolando Gabriel Dy, receive an award during the 3rd Pacquiao-Elorde Awards Night. | via @DYANCASTILLEJO pic.twitter.com/ZhZ98DZhKq

— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) April 30, 2026

Adding perspective on the sport’s broader impact, Francis Tolentino described the ceremony as a cultural milestone.

“This is a celebration of discipline. Sacrifice. And the relentless Filipino spirit,” he said. “The Pacquiao-Elorde Awards… has become more than an event. It is now the Oscars of Philippine sports.”

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Pato Gregorio echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of perseverance and grassroots development. “Success isn’t about how many times you win but how many times you rise,” he said.

Gregorio was also honored with the Distinguished Ring Award, underscoring his continued support for Philippine sports development.

The emotional weight of the evening extended beyond speeches.

Zsa Zsa Padilla moved the crowd as she accepted her father Carlo Padilla’s Ring Excellence Award, recalling a personal connection to Pacquiao himself.

“Manny has always been my idol. Backstage, I asked him for an autograph because I bought his CD. He remembers that!” she shared, adding that her father recently turned 92.

The awards segment celebrated both current and legendary Filipino fighters, including Melvin Jerusalem and Pedro Taduran, who were named Boxers of the Year, alongside other standout athletes such as Alex Eala, Joshua Pacio, and Rolando Dy.

Veteran champions Luisito Espinosa, Rolando Navarrete, Donnie Nietes, and Nonito Donaire were also recognized, completing a night that bridged generations of Filipino excellence.

In the end, the event was more than a ceremony.

It was a reminder that in Philippine sports, greatness is not only measured in titles—but in stories of rising, falling, and rising again. 

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!