"I'm really thankful and happy because of this award na binigay sa akin," Pacquiao said.
Pacquiao's Adviser Michael Koncz said, "He's got a lot of pride accepting that award. It's good for him. It's good for the country. It's good for all Filipinos."
The award-giving body, Asia Society, said honorees were selected through a survey of more than 1,000 global leaders who inspire the world to do things differently.
Last year, Chinese billionaire Jack Ma, the businessman behind Alibaba, received the Asia Game Changer of the Year award.
Just like Pacquiao, Ma was chosen for his humanitarian and charitable works.
Other past awardees include Malala Yousafzai, the female rights activist from Pakistan, and Filipino social entrepreneur Illac Diaz, for his Liter of Light program.
While at the Asia Society, Pacquiao had a few minutes to see the Philippine Gold exhibit at the Asia Society Museum.
Pacquiao, who is launching a senatorial bid soon, said he has only one thing in mind.
"Pagbabago, reduce the poverty, and also reduce the crime," Pacquiao said.
Pacquiao is flying back to the Philippines on Wednesday to file his certificate of candidacy (COC) for the senatorial post.
Read more on Balitang America.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
