LAS VEGAS — Several Filipino politicians and celebrities, including former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, made their way to the MGM Grand in Las Vegas to show support for Manny Pacquiao, who returns to the ring Saturday night to face WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.

Among those spotted at the MGM Grand were Jinggoy Estrada, former Senator Bong Revilla, Cesar Montano, Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano and Andrew E.

Filipino American comedian and Netflix star Jo Koy took the stage as a special guest during the weigh-in Friday and praised Pacquiao’s return to the ring and his lasting impact on the Filipino community.

In an interview ahead of the fight, Singson, a longtime supporter of Pacquiao, voiced full support for the Filipino boxing legend, even as he acknowledged the challenge Pacquiao faces, particularly at age 46, going up against a younger opponent in Barrios, 29.

“I’m here to support Senator Manny Pacquiao because this is probably his toughest fight yet due to the age difference,” Singson told Inquirer.net USA. 

“When a boxer hits 40, his reflexes change and start to slow down. I told him that when he was only 26.”

Despite the odds favoring Barrios, Singson lauded Pacquiao’s legacy and the pride he has brought to the nation over the years.

“Manny Pacquiao has brought great honor to our country. He deserves our support,” Singson said. “Because if Manny wins, this will be another historic moment. This is probably the first time a young fighter is matched against an older legend.”

If Pacquiao wins, he will become the second oldest fighter in boxing history.

Singson also pointed out a shift in betting odds leading up to the fight.

“At first, a P100 bet could win P500. Yesterday, it dropped — P100 would get you P200. That means more and more people are betting on Manny,” he said.

The 12-round welterweight bout stakes Pacquiao’s experience and legacy against Barrios’ youth and momentum. If Pacquiao prevails, Singson believes it will be another proud moment for Filipinos around the world.

“It will be another source of pride for us if Manny Pacquiao wins,” he said.

Pasay Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano said she “came all the way from Pasay to support Manny.”

“We were together in Congress. He is the pride of the Philippines,” she said. “We are praying for his safety and victory.”