President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued a nationwide directive for all government agencies to throw their full weight behind the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the legendary “Thrilla in Manila”—the brutal, iconic 1975 boxing war between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier that stunned the world and put the Philippines on the global sports map.
In a Memorandum Circular No. 99 signed Tuesday by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the President ordered all national government agencies, GOCCs, and local government units—and urged the private sector and civil society—to “extend full support and assistance” to the PSC for the week-long celebration from October 26 to 31, 2025.
“The ‘Thrilla in Manila’ was more than just a fight—it was a cultural earthquake that echoed across continents,” the circular stated. “It showcased Filipino hospitality, organizational excellence, and our deep love for the sport of boxing at the highest level.”
A Fight That Shook the World—And Was Backed by a Marcos
Held on October 1, 1975, at the historic Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, the third and final bout between Ali and Frazier is still hailed as one of the most savage and technically brilliant fights in boxing history. After 14 grueling rounds under sweltering Manila heat, Frazier’s trainer Eddie Futch famously stopped the fight, declaring, “No one will ever forget what you did here, Joe—but it’s over.”
Ali won by corner retirement, sealing a 2–1 series victory—but both men emerged as legends.
Notably, the original “Thrilla” was personally backed by then-President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., who saw the event as a chance to project Philippine prestige during a turbulent era. Now, 50 years later, his son is reviving that legacy—this time as a celebration of national pride, not political spectacle.
Pacquiao Joins the Ring: “Thrilla in Manila 2” Set to Ignite Araneta Again
Adding fuel to the anniversary frenzy, boxing legend and former Senator Manny Pacquiao recently met with President Marcos Jr. at Malacañang to secure backing for his “Thrilla in Manila 2” boxing card—an all-Filipino tribute event designed to honor the original while spotlighting the next generation of champions.
The high-stakes card is expected to feature:
- WBC minimumweight king Melvin Jerusalem defending his title against South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse
- A WBC super featherweight eliminator between former world champ Mark Magsayo and Italy’s Michael Magnesi
With the Araneta Coliseum likely to host the event once again, insiders say the atmosphere could mirror the electric tension of 1975—only this time, the world will be watching through livestreams, social media, and global sports networks.
Why This Matters Now
In an era of rising geopolitical tensions and national identity debates, the Palace sees the “Thrilla” anniversary as more than nostalgia—it’s a soft power moment.
“The Philippines didn’t just host a fight,” said a Palace official. “We hosted history. And today, we’re reminding the world that we remain a nation capable of greatness—on the ring, in diplomacy, and in unity.”
As government agencies mobilize and private sponsors line up, one thing is clear: Manila is ready for another Thrilla.
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