Pacquiao training underway in GenSan under all-Filipino trainers

Boxing icon and incumbent senator Manny Pacquiao started training on Wednesday in a gym in General Santos City under all-Filipino trainers, according to a report on Unang Balita on Thursday by Mav Gonzales.

Pacquiao is currently preparing for his upcoming fight with Argentine WBA welterweight world champion Lucas Matthysse in July in Kuala Lumpur.

On Wednesday afternoon, he had nine rounds of mitts training, then worked on the small bag and speedball.

Nonito Donaire Sr., father of "The Filipino Flash" Nonito Donaire, has joined Team Pacquiao as assistant trainer.

All-Filipino Team Pacquiao: Buboy Fernandez, Nonoy Neri, Jon Peñalosa, Dodie Boy Peñalosa, and the newest addition Nonito Donaire Sr. pic.twitter.com/siCgJe35NC

— Mav Gonzales (@mavgonzales) May 9, 2018

Donaire Sr. said Pacquiao saw him at an event and asked if he can still hold mitts.

"Kinausap ako ni Manny sa isang event. He asked me if I can still hold mitts. I can still make 12 rounds," he said.

Donaire Sr. said it would be a big honor to join Pacquiao in training.

"Ang laking karangalan na makasama si Manny. Masayang-masaya ako," he said.

Pacquiao's training will focus on defense especially since Matthysse is known to be a knockout artist.

"Masaya. First time na puro Pilipino lahat ng nasa corner. Nagtutulungan lalo nandito si Nonito Donaire Sr.," said Buboy Fernandez, head trainer.

Fernandez said Pacquiao needs to work on his footwork. "Kailangan maibalik ang dating bilis ng paa. Develop depensa."

Pacquiao is confident his speed will be up to par.

"Malayo pa 'yung fight pero bumabalik na 'yung speed," he said.

Also with Team Pacquiao are Coach Nonoy Neri and Jonathan Peñalosa.

Pacquiao will stay in GenSan until the Senate resumes its sessions after the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. —KG, GMA News