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Manny “PacMan” Pacquiao is no stranger to high-profile stages — from crowded boxing arenas to political campaigns. But now, he’s stepping into something different. The legend has officially joined Netflix’s latest reality competition, Physical: Asia — the Asia-wide evolution of Physical: 100 — as the main figure for Team Philippines.
This isn’t a boxing match. It’s a test of endurance, strength, strategy and teamwork. Instead of punching gloves, Pacquiao will lead a squad of six Filipino athletes competing against teams from eight countries: Korea, Japan, Thailand, Mongolia, Türkiye, Indonesia, Australia and the Philippines.
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Switching from the boxing ring to a reality competition show might look like a big change, but for Pacquiao, it’s just the next step in his ongoing search for new challenges and boundaries.
Pacquiao has made his mark as an athlete, senator, and brand icon, and now he’s taking on a new challenge. His role brings excitement and credibility to ‘Physical: Asia’, especially as sports, media, and entertainment converge. People will watch not only for his athletic skills, but also to see how he represents his country.
This show is driven by ambition. Earlier seasons of ‘Physical: 100’ focused on individual strength and endurance, but the Asia edition is all about teams competing for their countries. Here, one mistake can affect the whole group.
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Physical: Asia Team Philippines | Image: IMDb
Who’s on Team Philippines?
When you hear Manny Pacquiao’s name, you might think that the spotlight is only on him. However, Netflix made sure that Team Philippines is more than just one legend. The team is a carefully selected group of athletes, each providing their own strengths. Because the show is a team competition, star power alone is not enough to succeed. Teams need balance, diversity, and members who can support one another’s weaknesses. That’s where the rest of the squad steps up.
Here’s ‘Physical: Asia’ Philippines Team:
Mark “Mugen” Striegl — Fil-Am sambo athlete
Ray Jefferson Querubin — Strongman
Justin Coveney — National rugby player
Robyn Lauren Brown — Track & field hurdler
Lara Liwanag — CrossFit standout
It’s a mixture of speed, strength, endurance and strategic awareness. Striegl brings combat-sport grit, Querubin provides brute power, Coveney contributes teamwork and collision discipline from rugby, Brown provides explosive speed and agility, and Liwanag balances the group with exceptional conditioning and mental toughness.
What makes this lineup so compelling is how closely it reflects Pacquiao’s own story. He’s always been more than just his fists — his success came from resilience, adaptability and taking strength from those around him. Team Philippines captures this same spirit. With Pacquiao’s leadership added to this diverse group of athletes, they enter Physical: Asia as more than just underdogs. They appear like a squad built to surprise, and that is what could make them dangerous.
Manny Pacquiao Joins Netflix’s Physical: Asia | Image: Getty Images
Why Pacquiao’s Netflix Move Matters
With Physical: Asia set to premiere in 2025, there are already some storylines to watch. Will Pacquiao face the challenges himself, or will he lead the team? How will Team Philippines react if one member starts to struggle? Can they adapt, recover, and keep going? Plus, with well-known fighters like UFC veteran Robert Whittaker and Muay Thai champion Superbon leading other teams, the competition will be tough.
But Pacquiao’s role is more than just the thrill of the matches. At 46, he has already proven his athletic skills with eight world titles in different weight classes. What matters now is his readiness to change and try new things, in sports and beyond. By joining Netflix, Pacquiao is not just competing. He is showing us that legends don’t retire—they keep growing.
For Netflix, having Pacquiao involved makes ‘Physical: Asia’ more than just another reality show. It turns the series into a cultural event where national pride, sports spirit, and entertainment come together. For Pacquiao, it is another part of a career marked not by limits, but by his will to keep moving forward.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details
For the ultra-wealthy, flying commercial—or even in a private jet—simply doesn’t suffice. When you’re a billionaire, CEO, or even royalty, why sit in traffic when you can fly above it? Private helicopters aren’t just about convenience; they’re about making a statement. Whether you’re landing on a superyacht in Monaco or whisking away to a private island in the Maldives, these elite flying machines provide a level of luxury, speed, and exclusivity that’s truly unmatched.
However, not all helicopters are the same. Some prioritize functionality, while others resemble luxurious five-star suites soaring through the air. Imagine hand-stitched leather seating, champagne chillers, soundproof cabins, and an array of high-tech gadgets that would impress even James Bond. Naturally, such opulence comes with a staggering cost—if you desire to fly in style, be prepared to invest millions.
Get ready for a journey through the five priciest private helicopters globally. We’ll explore their unique features, current owners, and the reasons behind their mansion-like prices. Prepare yourself—these costs soar to new heights!
Sikorsky S-92 Executive | Image: Air Charter Services
1. Sikorsky S-92 Executive – $27 Million
Specifications:
Seating Capacity: Up to 19 passengers
Maximum Speed: 165 Kts | 305 km/H
Range: 547 nM | 1103 Km
Engine: 2 × General Electric CT7-8A turboshaft engines
Luxury Features: Noise-canceling cabin, custom leather interiors, entertainment systems
Notable Owners: Heads of state, corporate executives, VIPs
Primary Use: Corporate transport, offshore oil & gas, VIP transport
The Sikorsky S-92 Executive stands out in the luxury helicopter market and plays a vital role in international diplomacy and government activities. As part of the Marine One fleet, it serves as reliable transportation for the President of the United States. This specific version, designed for the President, features secure communication systems, military-grade avionics, and enhanced defensive capabilities, ensuring that security remains a top priority wherever the leader of the free world travels.
The S-92’s association with presidential travel enhances its allure and sophistication. This same helicopter that securely carries heads of state is also accessible to the elite for corporate travel. While the Marine One variant prioritizes security, the Executive model emphasizes luxury, comfort, and cutting-edge technology—qualities that appeal to corporate leaders and CEOs who value high-end experiences. With its remarkable heritage, the Sikorsky S-92 Executive symbolizes unmatched prestige and exceptional engineering in aviation.
The Bell 525 Relentless signifies more than just a helicopter; it conveys a powerful statement of prestige and cutting-edge technology. Designed to revolutionize the luxury helicopter market, the Bell 525 is the first commercial helicopter equipped with fully fly-by-wire controls, placing it among the world’s most advanced models. This fly-by-wire system enhances stability, precision, and safety, ensuring a smoother and more intuitive flight experience—even in turbulent conditions.
The cabin’s interior is truly breathtaking. Accommodating up to 20 passengers, this helicopter resembles a luxury private jet, complete with rotor blades. The interiors can be fully customized, featuring luxurious leather seating, mahogany paneling, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and tailored lighting to create the perfect atmosphere. Whether sealing a high-stakes business deal or enjoying a scenic getaway, the Bell 525 ensures exceptional comfort while in the air.
Engine: 2 × General Electric CT7-2E1 turboshaft engines
Luxury Features: Wide cabin, custom-designed interiors, enhanced climate control
Notable Owners: VIPs, offshore executives, luxury charter services
Primary Use: Corporate transport, VIP travel, offshore support
The Leonardo AW189 represents the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship, cutting-edge engineering, and luxurious aviation. Built for versatility, this helicopter is ideal for executive travel, offshore assistance, and extended journeys. With a remarkable range of 573 miles, passengers can traverse large distances while maintaining comfort and speed. The cabin is open and spacious, seating up to 19 passengers, with customizable interiors for a tailored experience, including plush leather seats and advanced entertainment systems. The AW189, powered by General Electric CT7-2E1 turboshaft engines, delivers remarkable speed alongside excellent fuel efficiency and reliability. Its sophisticated climate control system guarantees passenger comfort regardless of external conditions. Initially designed for offshore use, the AW189 has evolved into a preferred option for business leaders and VIPs, merging practicality with sophistication. Priced at $17 million, it epitomizes luxury in helicopter travel, providing an unparalleled experience in the air.
The Airbus ACH 175 appeals to those seeking a unique blend of luxury, speed, and performance. Its sleek and stylish design accommodates up to 12 passengers in a spacious cabin that can be fully tailored to fit individual preferences. Each detail of the ACH 175’s interior, from plush leather seating to top-notch entertainment systems, is meticulously designed to offer a first-class experience in the skies.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210A engines, the ACH 175 guarantees a smooth and stable flight, ensuring comfort even at its top speed of 282 km/h. With its advanced noise reduction technology, passengers experience a quiet and peaceful environment, ideal for relaxation or business activities. Boasting a range of 560 miles, it distinguishes itself as an excellent choice for private charters, enabling long-distance travel without sacrificing time or comfort.
The ACH 175 stands out with its exquisite interiors and exceptional reliability and safety. With a state-of-the-art avionics system, pilots benefit from cutting-edge technology that ensures a smooth and secure flight. Whether soaring over tranquil landscapes or navigating bustling cities, the ACH 175 promises a journey that is both comfortable and remarkably efficient. Priced at $16.8 million, the Airbus ACH 175 epitomizes Airbus’s aviation expertise in luxury travel, providing a sophisticated flying experience for those seeking unparalleled style and performance.
The Airbus ACH160 delivers a refined and effective flying experience for those seeking luxury without sacrifice. Featuring a modern and innovative cabin, it accommodates up to 8 passengers, while panoramic windows offer breathtaking views during the flight. The incredibly comfortable seating and personalized interior design foster a tailored ambiance, ensuring that each trip feels like a lavish adventure. Featuring Safran Arrano engines, the ACH160 offers a tranquil flying experience and can achieve speeds of 257 km/h. With a range of 510 miles, it’s ideal for short to mid-range travel, particularly catering to high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury private charters or leisure trips. The cabin features a serene ambiance and ample space, enabling passengers to relax, work, or host guests in complete comfort.
Unlike its brother, the Airbus ACH175, this model sets new standards in luxurious helicopter travel by merging cutting-edge technology with exceptional comfort and style. Boasting a sleek, polished exterior and a state-of-the-art avionics system, the ACH160 exemplifies premium performance just as much as it does luxury. Priced at $14 million, this helicopter caters to those who appreciate sophistication and practicality, highlighting comfort, elegance, and efficiency. Whether attending a business meeting or embarking on a leisurely trip, the Airbus ACH160 guarantees an experience of unmatched elegance.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.