Gordon: Triumphant boxers prove Filipinos are born achievers

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today said that the recent victories of boxers Nonito Donaire, Jr. and Brian Viloria proved once more that Filipinos are born hardworking fighters and achievers.

Gordon commended Donaire and Viloria for winning their respective bouts last April 19 at the Araneta Coliseum that brought pride to every Filipino and provided an inspiration to the nation.

"The victory of Donaire and Viloria further unified our people in taking pride in their achievements, in becoming models for emulation, and in opening new frontiers for our people," he said in filing Senate Resolution 1011.

"They have shown Filipinos that we can conquer our opponents, and more importantly, our own fears and unwarranted inhibitions," he added.

Donaire, tagged as "The Filipino Flash", defeated American Raul Martinez and succeeded in defending his International Boxing Federation (IBF)/International Boxing Organization (IBO) flyweight crown by way of technical knockout, when the undefeated Martinez succumbed to Donaire's blows after only 4 rounds.

Meanwhile, Viloria, "The Hawaiian Punch", regained the IBF light flyweight championship belt, valiantly fighting Ulises Solis of Mexico up to the latter's fall in the 11th round, through a technical knockout.

Gordon said that the two boxers' discipline, diligence and dedication to their profession should be the same values that Filipinos must instill among themselves to be able to succeed against the challenges of the times.

"Through their triumph, they have broken down the walls of insecurity and indifference," he said.

"They have become exemplars of discipline, hard work and dedication, showing our people the work ethic to achieve goals by working hard and exerting utmost efforts, and not merely through instant gratification," he added.