Christian boxing champion turned politician, Manny Pacquiao has had his proposed bill for a National Bible Day signed into law by the Philippine Senate.

Senator Pacquiao's proposal was met without any opposition and will now be observed annually on the last Monday of January.

The new working holiday will celebrate Christianity and the observance of the teachings of the Bible.

In his explanatory note to the bill, Pacquiao said: "As a predominantly Christian nation and the largest Christian nation in the Asia Pacific, this Act recognises the value of the Holy Bible as the core of Christian faith."

"Sermons and homilies of Christian churches dwell in the teachings of the Bible. It is the primary source of spiritual manna.

"Bless the Lord O my soul
O my soul
Worship His Holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your Holy name." pic.twitter.com/7x6oUMWmch

— Manny Pacquiao (@mannypacquiao) October 26, 2017

"It forms and transforms lives of people from generations to generations. It serves as the foundation of spiritual, moral, and social fibre, which moulds a socially responsible citizenry and strong nation building."

Approximately four in five Filipinos are Catholics, amounting to around 80 million people.

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