Filipino boxer Pacquiao praised despite loss

Manila, Dec 10 (IANS) The Philippine government Monday said Filipino boxing icon Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao still deserve a hero's welcome despite losing to Mexico's Juan Miguel Marquez.

Pacquiao lost to Marquez after being knocked out cold in the sixth round of their bout in Las Vegas Sunday, reports Xinhua.

"He has brought so much honour to the country. There is no reason for us not to continue to honour Pacquiao," presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.

Lacierda said Pacquiao's attitude even in defeat should be commended.

He said, however, that the Filipino boxer is not scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Philippine president Benigno Aquino III upon his return to Manila.