PILI-PINO

Here are some highlights from the Pacquiao vs. Cotto fight. I leave them here to remind me of the emotions going into watching this event. In 707 I watched with family and close friends. Across the world in the Philippines Auntie Azon,Uncle Cesar, and Baby Gabi rented a hall and watched along with family. In Las Vegas different parts of my circumference watched. I felt the energy through Twitter updates, mass texts, and the big screen TV. For the Philippines, for the tragedy that's hit home this summer this victory means a lot to us. Although our pride wouldn't have been shaken, it is no secret how good if feels to be Pilipno. Yes, Manny's story is but the tip of the narrative about what it means to be (F)Pilipino, Fil-Am, American-Filipino, Pin@y, but there is no doubting that to see our faces on TV is indescribable. To hear my folks coming back from the 702 with stories about how it FELT to see that many of our brown folks in one spot.... oh yeah.. I can't help but smile. For people to rock Team Pacquiao jackets, who are NOT Pilipino is amazing! Like yo.. you know our people?! Most of the time we get mistaken as Chinese or Japanese or get "so what are you?" Next fight, I'm going to Vegas, BABY!!!!

If you break down the word PILPIN@ it means "fine choice." Oooohhh.. how good it feels, to be Pinay. For those that didn't believe Manny could do it, I think it's time to give him his props and his well earned respect.