Last Tuesday, November 17, 2009 Manny Pacquiao heavy hits descended upon The Highlands at the Hollywood and Highland Complex in Hollywood. This reporter was invited to a press conference sans red carpet before Manny was to sing a few songs at his concert for the fans.
Manny Pacquiao in Tagalog.
Unfortunately, things usually change at last minutes notice as Pacquiao no longer wanted to do the press conference before the show. Instead, the boxing champ decided to do a five minute press conference after the concert. Grumblings were heard from
various media outlets as they waited patiently from 6:30pm to 10pm before Pacquiao finally made his appearance for the media. Unfortunately, not much was to be had in regards to questions as VIP guests were allowed in the press conference making the area feel like individual packed as sardine cans. This reporter could hear Kat Amidar of Filipino blog site Bakitwhy scream to people behind her, "Stop pushing!"
Prior to the concert and impromptu press line was created by this reporter's affiliate video outlet, Pacific Rim Video. Janet Nepales guest hosted as she interviewed various celebrity guest such as Filipino music artist Marc Sison and Bambu. This reporter also stepped in to interview guitarist Frank DeSalvo of Adam's Attic.
My good friend Ruben Nepales and Janet Nepales posed most of the questions to Pacquiao regarding his future plans from politics to film. Pacquiao was excited to announce that he will jump into Philippine politics to be a voice of the people while still keeping his foot in the boxing ring. Pacquiao also has made it to the big screen and is interested in pursuing an acting career also.
As for now he's taking it slow to enjoy some time off with the family. However, on the gossip side, questions on the rumors of his allege fling with Krista Ranillo or personal questions were forbidden. This may have been the reason for the change of plans of his press conference. Apparently the rumors are running rampant on Ranillo and Pacquiao in the Philippines as Philippine media outlet ABS-CBN reports that Krista's family are receiving death threats mentioned in a statement sent to the outlet.
According to the statement, “Our family is deeply saddened by the continuing negative publicity being hurled upon us as a result of the alleged inappropriate relationship of Ms. Krista Ranillo with Mr. Manny Pacquiao.” The Ranillo family lawyer Tonosito Umali, "There is absolutely no inappropriate relationship that existed, that is existing between Mr. Manny Pacquiao and Ms Krista Ranillo.”
On a more exciting note, Pacquiao was a crowd pleaser as he sang various songs such as "La Bamba." Expect an album in English in the not to far future.
For more photos of the event visit pacificrimphotopress.com All Photos taken by Sthanlee B. Mirador/Pacific Rim Photo Press.
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