PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to oversee the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the “Thrilla in Manila” from October 26 to 31, including the implementation of programs, activities and projects to commemorate the event.
The President, in issuing Memorandum Circular No. 99 that was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin last Sept. 23, a copy of which was published in the Official Gazette last Wednesday, said the “Thrilla in Manila” is a sporting and cultural milestone that brought global recognition to the Philippines.
“On 1 October 1975, the Philippines hosted the world heavyweight boxing championship match between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, famously known as the ‘Thrilla in Manila’… the year 2025 marks the 50th Anniversary of ‘Thrilla in Manila’,” the memorandum read.
“The success of the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Thrilla in Manila requires the active participation of all concerned government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as the support of local government units (LGUS) and the private sector,” it added.
To ensure the success of the weeklong celebration, the PSC has been directed to lead the celebration while all government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations, are directed to extend full support and assistance to the Commission.
Former senator Manny Pacquiao, World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman, and MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons May announced the holding of “Thrilla in Manila Part 2” last May to commemorate the “Thrilla in Manila” 50 years ago.
