Pacquiao named Communicator of the Year by Public Affairs Asia

8-Division Boxing Champion and Sarangani Representative Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao (Facebook photo)

MANILA – Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquaio won the Communicator of the Year recognition from the Public Affairs Asia at the recent Gold Standard Awards 2014 held in Hong Kong.

The “Safe Steps” ambassador and representative of Sarangani was cited for being a “highly- effective ambassador” and bested all the nominees because of his ability to “combine his charisma and sense of commitment to generate a credible campaign focused on how communities should practically prepare for natural disasters.”

Safe Steps is a disaster preparedness educational program that is available in multiple platforms. They have on-air videos in their website that can be easily shared. One of the videos feature Pacquiao who gives advise on key survival tips and what people can do during floods, typhoons, earthquake, and fire strike

The 60-second public service announcement is being aired throughout Asia via 13 Fox International Channels (FIC) which include StarWorld, National Geographic, and Channel [V]. Estimates show that the reach is about 24 million homes.

“This award is a strong endorsement of our significant disaster preparedness education program,” said Pacquiao.

He added, “Safe Steps is a big step in helping build resilient communities because it raises awareness on vital information on disaster preparedness. Together with the Prudence Foundation and National Geographic Channel, I have made it my personal mission to equip every person in Asia with critical survival information.”

According to Prudence Foundation executive director Marc Fancy, Pacquiao “rightfully clinched the Communicator of the Year award because he was able to effectively reach 24 million households across Asia.”

“He is not only a survivor who understands the impact of natural disasters first hand, but also an icon and humanitarian,” said Fancy referring to the Filipino boxer.

The Gold Standard Awards is the standard in terms of excellence in corporate public affairs and stakeholder relationship across Asia Pacific region.

The Communicator of the Year award is given to people who displayed excellence in communications in the region.