Michael Pacquiao misses brother Jimuel's wedding, joins earthquake relief efforts in GenSan
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Michael Pacquiao skips Jimuel's wedding to focus on helping earthquake victims in General Santos City.
Michael Pacquiao earned praise from girlfriend Joyce Tan Custodio after choosing to stay in General Santos City to assist earthquake victims instead of attending the wedding of his brother, Jimuel Pacquiao, in California.
In an Instagram post, Joyce expressed her admiration for Michael's decision to prioritize his responsibilities as a public servant following the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8.
"Missing an important family moment was not easy, but your commitment to serving others speaks volumes about the kind of leader and person you are," Joyce wrote.
Michael currently serves as a councilor in General Santos City, one of the areas affected by the powerful quake. According to the Philippine News Agency, about 500 households in Barangay Hicban in General Santos City were totally destroyed by the disaster.
The earthquake left widespread damage across Mindanao, with authorities confirming 65 fatalities.
Joyce said that when the earthquake struck, Michael's immediate concern was the welfare of the people who relied on him.
"When the 7.8 magnitude earthquake came, your thoughts immediately turned to the people who depended on you," she said.
She also came to his defense amid criticism over his absence from the family celebration, saying that not everyone understands the sacrifices that come with public service.
"Not everyone will understand the sacrifices you make or the challenges you face, but I see your dedication, your compassion, and your commitment to helping others," she added.
Posts on Michael's official Facebook page showed the councilor joining relief operations and distributing aid to affected residents in General Santos City in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Joyce went on to commend Michael's resilience and dedication to serving his constituents despite the challenges he faces.
She also assured him of her continued support, writing, "No matter what people say, where life takes us, no matter the sacrifices and challenges along the way, we stand strong together."
Michael has yet to publicly address his absence from Jimuel's wedding, but Joyce's message offered a glimpse into the personal sacrifice behind his decision.
Michael and Jimuel are sons of boxing icon and former senator Manny Pacquiao.
Jimuel recently tied the knot in California, with members of the Pacquiao family attending the celebration. Michael, however, remained in General Santos City as relief and recovery efforts continued following one of the deadliest earthquakes to hit Mindanao in recent years.
Related gallery: Jimuel Pacquiao weds partner Carolina in the United States
