Pacquiao secures visa for China

By Reuben Terrado

THE Chinese Embassy has approved Manny Pacquiao’s application for a visa Tuesday, thus paving the way for the Filipino boxing star to joining Team Philippines and be its flag bearer during the opening ceremonies of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games on August 8.

This was confirmed by Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) treasurer Julian Camacho, who talked with Chinese Embassy officials Tuesday.

“They have given him the green light to go to Beijing with the approval of his visa,” said Camacho, also the president of the Wushu Federation of the Philippines.

With a Chinese visa in the bag, the POC will then make arrangements for Pacquiao to secure his Olympic Games accreditation card. He will use the accreditation of one of the team doctors, Dr. Sonny Odulio. Pacquiao will stay in Beijing from August 5 to 9.

Pacquiao, the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champion, will leave for Los Angeles this week to start negotiating with Top Rank Promotions chief Bob Arum about his next fight before heading to Beijing to join the opening ceremonies, which will also be attended by President Arroyo.

Camacho will be part of a three-person advance party that will leave for Beijing on July 29.

Joining Camacho are administrative head Moying Martelino and Eleanor Navarro. They will attend the chiefs of mission meeting on July 30. They will also sign documents for the entry of Filipino athletes to the Athletes Village.

Shooter Eric Ang and archer Mark Javier are scheduled to leave on July 31. The main bulk of Team Philippines will depart on August 5.

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