Emmanuel Pacquiao, an Icon of Change from the Philippines

Manny Pacquiao Named Hall of Fame Honoree at the 2025 Icons of Change Awards in Muntinlupa

Former senator, global sports legend, and humanitarian leader Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao has shared his official video acceptance message after being inducted into the Icons of Change Hall of Fame 2025. The annual recognition program, organized by the Icons of Change Global Secretariat, in partnership with FAPSA–NCR and the Rotary Club of Alabang Madrigal Business Park (RCAMBP), celebrates individuals, groups, and institutions whose work has significantly advanced social progress and contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Pacquiao, universally regarded as one of the greatest boxers in history, carved an extraordinary path in global sports. He is the world’s only eight-division world boxing champion, capturing 12 major world titles and becoming a three-time Fighter of the Year awardee by both The Ring magazine and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He was also named Fighter of the Decade (2000–2009) by prestigious international organizations and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023. His career elevated Philippine sports on the world stage, earning him recognition as one of the most influential athletes of the 21st century.

Yet Pacquiao’s influence extends far beyond the boxing ring. His journey from poverty in General Santos City to global recognition has shaped a profound commitment to public service and humanitarian work. During his years in government as both Congressman and Senator, he championed policies supporting education access, health services, housing, and poverty reduction. His legislative efforts reflected a consistent drive to uplift marginalized communities and provide better opportunities for families struggling across the country.

Pacquiao’s humanitarian impact is most strongly felt through the Pacquiao Foundation, an organization that has transformed lives across the Philippines. The foundation has built and donated thousands of free housing units for families displaced by conflict, disasters, and poverty. It has carried out nationwide medical missions, providing free surgeries, check-ups, and essential medicines to underserved communities. The foundation also supports scholarship programs for youth, offers livelihood assistance to help families gain sustainable income, and finances emergency relief operations following typhoons, fires, and other crises. Many of these initiatives are executed in cooperation with local governments, non-profit organizations, and civic groups, ensuring broader reach and long-term sustainability.

Pacquiao’s charitable initiatives have also expanded internationally, with collaborations in the United States, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, amplifying the organization’s ability to respond to humanitarian needs beyond the Philippines. His vision for development—rooted in compassion, service, and empowerment—has made a remarkable difference in communities that often lack access to basic social services.

In his acceptance video for the Icons of Change Awards, Pacquiao expressed sincere gratitude for the recognition. He emphasized that while championships bring pride, it is service to others that brings purpose. He reflected on his own childhood struggles and how they fuel his mission to give hope, dignity, and opportunity to individuals and families facing hardship. His message highlighted the belief that true leadership is measured by how many lives one can lift, not by how many titles one can earn.

By honoring Manny Pacquiao, the Icons of Change Awards spotlight a figure whose life’s work embodies the spirit of resilience, compassion, and courage. His achievements in sport, public service, and humanitarian development continue to inspire Filipinos and global citizens alike. Pacquiao remains a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when influence is used to drive meaningful, people-centered change.

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