In recognition of his outstanding achievements in sports and his notable contributions to the development of national pride, the Philippine Normal University (PNU) has formally conferred the first-ever Doctor of Physical Education and Sports, Honoris Causa, to Hon. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao, the newly minted Secretary and Lead Convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) and boxing’s only eight-division world champion.

Considered a highly anticipated part of the 125th Anniversary celebration of the Opening of the Philippine Normal School (now PNU), the buzz surrounding the conferment rites brought together various stakeholders of the community, from members of the governing board to retired administrative employees. A localized drizzle prevented the ceremony from being held at the university’s quadrangle. However, it did not hinder the solemn conduct of the event yesterday, September 16, 2026, as it was moved to the equally historic Geronima T. Pecson Main Auditorium.

Sec. Pacquiao was accompanied by his beloved wife, Mrs. Jinkee Pacquiao, as well as officials and colleagues from the NAPC. In true PNU brand of hospitality, the honoree and his group were warmly welcomed by PNUans along the corridor of the university’s historic main building. A brief courtesy meeting with PNU President Dr. Bert J. Tuga was held prior to the formal ceremony.

After a brief moment of interaction with the PNU Community, the program kicked off with the customary processional, where top officials and other important stakeholders joined Sec. Pacquiao. Dr. Marilyn U. Balagtas, Vice President for Academics, delivered the Welcome Remarks, expressing the collective gratitude of the PNU Community to Sec. Pacquiao for accepting the honor bestowed upon him. Dr. Balagtas underscored that “life’s most powerful lessons are embodied in the lives of individuals who demonstrated excellence through discipline, leadership through service, and greatness through the ability to inspire others.”

As the brief program progressed, University Registrar Dr. Rosario M. Belmi presented the candidate for the honorary degree, elaborating on the approvals and recommendations the candidacy received. In response, President Tuga, as witnessed by the PNU Community, declared the formal conferment, presided over the hooding ceremony, and awarded Sec. Pacquiao his diploma.

A special musical interlude by the renowned PNU Chorale added a creative touch to the formal academic rites. The group, under the baton of Prof. Luzviminda B. Modelo, delivered their own arrangement of Sec. Pacquiao’s popular hit, Para Sa’yo Ang Laban Na ‘To. The music sheet of the song was also given to Sec. Pacquiao as another token of the community’s appreciation for the boxing legend.

As he addressed the PNU Community, Sec. Pacquiao emphasized that the honorary degree he received from the National Center for Teacher Education is beyond a mere validation of his accomplishments inside and outside the boxing ring. He considers the honor a reminder to continually serve and inspire the next generation. In his speech, Sec. Pacquiao underscored the importance of education in the holistic development of a person and how PNU strives to achieve this mission. He also used the platform to advocate for sports to become a pivotal aspect of nation-building. Expanding further on his prepared remarks, he elaborated on life’s essence—that we are mere stewards of the things in this world, and rather than letting wealth define us, we should push to inspire more people instead.

Sec. Pacquiao also took his oath as an honorary alumnus of PNU, led by Dr. Ponciano Menguito, the Vice President of the PNU Alumni Association, Inc. Shortly after the ceremony, Sec. Pacquiao took the time to interact with various stakeholders of the university, immersing himself in the vibrant community of his new Alma Mater.

With his induction as a proud PNUan, Sec. Pacquiao leaves behind a powerful message for the academic community: true greatness is measured not by the titles one collects, but by the countless lives one manages to inspire. The PNU community eagerly anticipates how his champion spirit will continue to uplift the marginalized and inspire the youth through education, sports, and public service. Armed with this new honorary doctorate, Sec. Pacquiao brings his journey from a legendary fighter to a dedicated public servant full circle, proving that his greatest battles—and victories—are now fought in the service of the Filipino people.