POC formally asks IOC regarding Manny Pacquiao's Olympics bid

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) officially sent its request to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding the former's request for the inclusion of Manny Pacquiao in the 2024 Paris Olympics as an amateur.

POC president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino bared on Sunday night that he had already sent an email to the IOC about Pacquiao's eligibility through the universality rule.

"Before I left Hangzhou. It is really in October where appeals are submitted. We just emailed the IOC if he will be allowed to be one of the universality, but there will be 120 countries fighting for that," Tolentino said in a mix of English and Filipino during a press conference in Makati City.

Tolentino said Pacquiao, 44,  will have to go through the universality rule as his age is already past the limit of 19-40 years old for the Olympic qualifiers.

The universality rule, however, will only be allotted to five for women and four for men boxers. Still, Tolentino remains optimistic that the eight-division world champion could see action in Paris.

"The answer will be in April. It will be some time, it's a long process. We are the ones who endorsed it, so we are positive they will allow."

Pacquiao signified his intent to compete in the Olympics in August.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News