Congresswoman-Elect Tulsi Gabbard today presented World Boxing Champion and Philippines Congressman Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao with a flag that was flown over the Hawaii State Capitol, along with an honorary certificate.
“We have many tough challenges that our respective countries are facing, and our commitment to working together is a symbol of the unity that is necessary in order for our country and global community to move forward,” Gabbard said during an appearance at Wild Card Boxing Club, Pacquiao’s training facility in Hollywood, California.
“I was proud to support Tulsi during her campaign because she stands for the people and will fight for their interests,” Pacquiao said.
Pacquiao appeared in print and radio ads for Gabbard during the weeks leading up to the August primary.
“I was impressed with her record of service and her deep ties to the Filipino community,” Pacquiao said. “I wasn’t surprised by her landslide victories, because she’s also a fighter. I am convinced she will make Hawai’i proud.”
Gabbard said she was humbled by Pacquiao’s early endorsement because he is both a national hero and someone who has also chosen to serve the public in elective office.
“As Congressional members in our two allied countries, we are committed to working together on issues that are of concern to both of our communities – issues like eliminating human trafficking, immigration reform, and creating jobs to increase the economic prosperity and quality of life for the people in our communities,” Gabbard said.
About Tulsi:
As a member of the Hawai‘i National Guard, Tulsi Gabbard served two tours of duty in the Middle East. She was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for her service and currently serves as a Captain.
A Democrat, Tulsi was the youngest person elected in Hawai‘i history, when in 2002 at the age of 21, she won a Hawai‘i State House seat. Two years later, Tulsi gave up her position in the Legislature to voluntarily join her fellow soldiers being deployed to a war zone in Iraq. Between her two deployments to the Middle East, Tulsi served as an aide to U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka. In 2010 she was elected to the Honolulu City Council where she chaired the Safety, Economic Development, and Government Affairs committee. On November 6, 2012, she was elected by the people of Hawaii to represent Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District, and is one of the first female combat veterans to ever be elected to Congress.
