Christian choir to sing 'Lupang Hinirang' for Pacquiao fight against Algieri

Filipino fight icon Manny Pacquiao has decided to do away with star factor in choosing the singer of the Philippine national anthem for his fight with Chris Algieri.

 

Instead of choosing a popular singer, Pacquiao has decided to go with a Christian choir made up of pastors from different churches in his hometown General Santos City, according to a report on Balitanghali.

 

"Nagpa-practice kasi kami nung Pambansang Awit nang dumating si Manny. Tapos nag-jo-joke kami na kami ang kakanta sa laban ni Pacquiao," said Pastor Jess Bacuña, who will be leading the choir on Sunday.

 

Despite the attention and public scrutiny that comes with the task of singing the national anthem, the pastor said the choir members are not nervous about their performance.

 

"Ang feeling po namin ay hindi kaba kundi excitement," he said.

 

Other artists who have sang the national anthem in Pacquiao fights include big names in the music industry such as Jessica Sanchez, Charice, Arnel Pineda, Martin Nievera, Kyla, Lani Misalucha, Sarah Geronimo, and Regine Velasquez. — Marisse Panaligan/JST, GMA News