Philippines at a standstill for Manny Pacquiao fight

Manila: Millions of Filipinos pack public gymnasiums, movie houses, restaurants and homes of relatives and friends with pay-per-view to cheer on their boxing hero Manny Pacquiao from halfway across the world in his fight against American Floyd Mayweather.

President Benigno Aquino III says he was confident that Pacquiao "will do our country proud as he has always done" and thanked the champion for being an inspiration to all Filipinos.

Pacquiao has been one of the sources of Filipino national pride and symbol of unity and hope for his nation plagued by corruption scandals, insurgency, poverty and natural disasters.

Thousands streamed into free public viewing areas, including military and police camps, after officials opened them early on Sunday.