Manny Pacquiao has returned to the Philippines after his knockout loss to Juan Manuel Márquez, saying he will fight again despite some members of his family imploring him to retire.

Shortly after arriving in Manila yesterday, Pacquiao told fans “we will rise again” and “there will be future fights”.

He says he will rest for five months before going back to the ring.

Government officials and fans carrying banners reading “you’re still our greatest champion and hero” welcomed Pacquiao and his wife Jinkee at the airport.

Pacquiao was knocked out by Mexico’s Márquez in the sixth round of last weekend’s non-title welterweight bout in Las Vegas.