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The surprise departure of People's Champ Manny Pacquiao from the Netflix series Physical: Asia sparked curiosity among fans of the international series.

The surprise came at the fifth episode of the series when the eight-division boxing champ and team captain of Team Philippines exited the show midway through the season.

“Gusto kong magpaumanhin na kailangan kong bumalik sa bansa ko kasi may mga obligation ako for the country,” Manny said on the show.

He also apologized to his teammates--MMA fighter Mark Striegl, CrossFit champion Lara Liwanag, rugby medalist Justin Coveney, strongman Ray Jefferson Querubin, and Olympic athlete Robyn Lauren Brown.

“Also, I just want to apologize to my team. Iba 'yung talagang... I wanted to show Team Philippines' capacity and capabilities. I really want to win the challenges, and I'm just wondering about what we're gonna do for the next challenge,” Manny shared.

Related gallery: Manny Pacquiao confident in pre-fight events, shows he's ready for battle

Manny admitted that his mindset for him and the team was to keep on going, which only made it harder for him to leave.

“It's hard. Sayang, but I'm happy to be part of this season, as team captain, proud akong i-represent 'yung Pilipinas,” sabi ni Manny.

Manny then shared that the people who make up Team Philippines are Heart Warriors, and that they can go through any challenge thrown at them.

“Talgang deep in my heart, in my mind, I pray for you na malampasan natin, manalo tayo sa championship,” Manny said.

He was then replaced by Filipino-American athlete and competitive CrossFitter Justin Hernandez as Team Captain. With Manny's departure, it became a turning point for Team Philippines as they had to adjust to the new guidance.

Members from the other teams were visibly surprised when Team Philippines entered for the next segment with Justin at the helm, and without Manny in the team.

Physical: Asia is the third season of the global hit Physical: 100 that tests the strength, endurance, and teamwork of athletes across demanding obstacle courses. Teams from the Philippines, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Turkiye, Indonesia, and Australia compete in elimination-type challenges or quests.

Related gallery: Take a look at the teams competing in Netflix's 'Physical: Asia'