Ferdinand Marcos Jr. orders full government backing for Thrilla in Manila’s 50th anniversary

Filipino boxing legend and former senator Manny Pacquiao has secured the full backing of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration of the iconic “Thrilla in Manila” — the legendary 1975 bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.

Set for October 29 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the commemorative event will bring together some of the country’s top boxing talents for a historic fight card. The initiative is being spearheaded by Pacquiao, who is taking a hands-on role in ensuring the Philippines honors its role in hosting one of the most iconic fights in boxing history.

On Tuesday, September 23, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that President Marcos had signed Memorandum Circular No. 99, directing full support for the celebration. The circular emphasizes the significance of the event in global boxing history and the Philippines’ unique place in that legacy.

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“All government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations, are hereby directed, and all LGUs, non-government organizations, and the private sector, are hereby encouraged, to extend full support and assistance to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in the successful celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Thrilla in Manila,” the memorandum reads.

Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular No. 99 directing all government agencies and instrumentalities to support the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of “Thrilla in Manila.” @BusinessMirror pic.twitter.com/uwylElmS6S

— Samuel Medenilla (@sam_medenilla) September 24, 2025

The Thrilla in Manila, held on October 1, 1975, is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight title fights of all time. Muhammad Ali claimed victory when Joe Frazier’s trainer, Eddie Futch, famously stopped the fight after the 14th round, telling his fighter: “Sit down, son. Nobody will forget what you did here today.”

Topping the anniversary card is reigning WBC minimumweight world champion Melvin Jerusalem, who will defend his belt against Siyakholwa Kuse of South Africa. Jerusalem’s title defense is one of several high-profile matchups designed to highlight the depth of Filipino boxing talent.

Joining him on the card are:

• Marlon Tapales, former unified world champion at 122 lbs. 
• Eumir Marcial, Olympic bronze medalist and rising middleweight contender. 
• Carl Jammes Martin, unbeaten super bantamweight prospect. 
• Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, who will also see action in tribute to his grandfather’s legacy. 

The event aims to be more than just a fight night — it’s a celebration of the Philippines’ historic contribution to boxing, a tribute to one of the sport’s greatest rivalries, and a platform to showcase the next generation of Filipino champions.

With the combined efforts of Pacquiao, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the full backing of Malacañang, the 50th anniversary of the Thrilla in Manila is poised to be one of the most significant sporting events of the year in the country.

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