The “People’s Champ,” Hon. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao has worn so many hats in the past decade – record-breaking boxer, member of the Philippine congress, businessman, brand ambassador of several brands, musician and benefactor to several causes. The latter in particular has earned him much respect in the international community for his consistent support for the movement against human trafficking, disaster relief, and orphanages across the country and other parts of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Ellen Wallop, Asia Society

With all the honour he has brought to the country and the amazing work he has done as leading philanthropist across the globe, it comes to no surprise that Asia Society has heralded him with the Game Changer of the Year Award. Pacquiao shares his enthusiasm, “It’s an unforgettable memory that I can have this award. It’s an honor to me and my family and to my whole country — the Philippine people.”

Photo courtesy of Ellen Wallop, Asia Society

The prestigious award was first given to Alibaba founder, Jack Ma, for his history-making business and philanthropy efforts in China back in 2014 for the award’s inaugural year. According to Asia Society, the Asia Game Changer Awards, launched by the Asia Society in 2014, are designed to fill a vital gap, identifying and honoring true leaders making a positive contribution to the future of Asia. These awards are bestowed annually to individuals, organizations, and movements that have inspired, enlightened, and shown true leadership in areas that reflect Asia Society’s core pillars of policy and business, arts and culture, and education.

Below is the full acceptance speech of Pacquiao courtesy of Asia Society: