Mark ‘Mugen’ Striegl, Lara Liwanag recall ‘surreal’ experience competing with Manny Pacquiao on ‘Physical: Asia’

For Mark "Mugen" Striegl and Lara Liwanag, competing alongside Manny Pacquiao for Team Philippines on “Physical: Asia” was a surreal and amazing experience.

On Thursday’s “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” the athletes recounted the overwhelming moment the Philippine team was introduced alongside other delegates, capped by the crowd erupting when Manny’s name was called.

“Sobrang surreal [on] my end. Kasi hindi ko din expect na makakasama ko siya," Lara said. "Like, parang ‘yung idol ko, nandyan lang sa tabi ko. Pero knowing na parang ah lahat sila nagagalingan dito, ibig sabihin ang tingin nila kay Pacman talaga, sobrang taas. Siya ‘yung pinakasikat na nandoon na athlete."

When asked what Manny was like as a team captain, Mark described the boxing icon as warm, humble, and eager to offer guidance even in small moments.

“Amazing, I mean, he's the one and only Manny Pacquiao," Mark began.

He echoed Lara in describing the experience as "surreal." 

"I remember one time, in between shoots, we were sitting on the side waiting for our turn, and he was just giving us tips on eating bananas for potassium and sharing the importance of being hydrated for competitions. It was so cool,” he said.

According to Lara,  Manny’s faith-centered leadership stood out during each challenge.

“‘Yung nagustuhan ko sa kaniya, lahat ng quest namin, sobrang faithful na kay Lord. As in, nanghihingi siya ng guidance, mag-start siya ng prayer before we start. It's more of asking guidance lang sa mga quests,” she said.

Aside from Mark and Lara, Team Philippines was also joined by Ray Jefferson Querubin, Justin Coveney, and Robyn Lauren Brown.

Manny had to exit “Physical: Asia” early due to another obligation, and he was replaced by Justin Hernandez.

Shortly after, Team Philippines was eliminated. They were the third group eliminated from the competition. — LA, GMA Integrated News