Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao headlines Araneta City’s Thrilla 50th anniversary press conference

Araneta City launched its golden anniversary celebration of the historic "Thrilla in Manila" with a press conference graced by another sports legend: world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao. Held on October 1 at World Kitchens, the international dining destination at Gateway Mall 2, the event marked the start of the City of Firsts’ month-long tribute to the historic 1975 bout between boxing icons Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.

During the event, Pacquiao shared his excitement for the world-class boxing exhibitions organized by MP Promotions on October 29 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum--the same venue where Ali and Frazier fought their final, unforgettable match 50 years ago. Featuring today's top fighters from around the world, the exhibitions aim to revive the spirit of the original Thrilla and inspire a new generation of boxing fans.

These matches are part of a broader lineup of anniversary activities, including immersive exhibits at the Green and Red Gate lobbies of the Big Dome. The celebration also aligns with a nationwide directive to honor a defining moment in history, one that placed the Philippines on the global sports map.

Serving as the venue for the press conference, World Kitchens proved to be a fitting choice. With a seating capacity of around 700, six VIP areas, a dedicated stage, and 15 international show kitchens, this MICE facility in Araneta City showcased its versatility and sophistication, making it ideal for hosting events that blend culinary excellence with cultural significance.