Boxer Manny Pacquiao presents a speech at Oxford University

Pacquiao describes the moment as “truly an unforgettable experience,” as he shares his speech entitled “Dreams Do Come True.” (Photo: Jinkee Pacquiao/Facebook)

Athlete/Politician Manny Pacquiao joined the list that included Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill, Mother Teresa, Margaret Thatcher, Dalai Lama, Robert Kennedy, and Presidents Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan who were all once invited to present a speech in front of the Oxford Union and called it “a dream come true” as he delivered his words at the Frewin Court, Oxford University, England last Monday, November 5.

Pacquiao described the moment as “truly an unforgettable experience,” as he shared his speech entitled “Dreams Do Come True.”

He shared about his journey in becoming an icon for Philippine boxing despite starting from humble beginnings, saying, “When I received your gracious invitation, I asked myself, ‘What could Manny Pacquiao say that would be of any impact, much more utility, to the men and women who enjoy the highest standards of instruction at Oxford?’” He continued, “The answer came fast: I know what I should speak about, I will call it my education in the Open University of Life.” 

He elaborated that he had only been educated until the twelfth grade, his struggle of being “dirt poor” igniting him “to work since the age of five.” However, he positively stated, “But, my mind and spirit were never hungry. For me, morning did come – a lesson in what can be achieved if you have determination.” He added an analogy about being “a fighter, but not because of [his] profession,” instead because of the struggles he had been through and pursued.

Pertaining to his stories as a boxer and Senator, Pacquiao also announced the confirmation of a rematch with Floyd Mayweather and the possibility of his run in the 2022 Philippine Presidential elections. He also admitted that “politics will never be [his] comfort zone,” but spoke of his advocacies in the Senate house, like his support of President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against illegal substances, the protection of war-stricken Marawi, and the country’s preparation for typhoons like 2013’s Yolanda.

Pacquiao ended his speech saying, “That is Manny Pacquiao’s story so I ask you — all of you — to never lose faith in what you can do as a human being, belief in the loyalty of family, and belief in the Almighty.” As a concluding statement, he proclaimed, “You, with your education, determination and faith. You can change the world.”