He has yet to file his candidacy for congressman of South Cotabato but this early, boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is already having second thoughts about semi-shifting his career to politics.
On Saturday night, Pacquiao was reportedly “booed” by audience who watched the “Battle of Cebu” between Filipino and Mexican boxers.
TV Patrol World reported Monday that some of Pacquiao’s fans called him “congressman” as he entered the Cebu Sports Complex. Some of those opposed to his reported candidacy, meanwhile, voiced their opposition taunted him.
The jeers he got from the Cebu crowd reportedly sank in and Pacquiao is already contemplating on just focusing his attention on his training for the April fight against Mexican Jorge Solis.
The negative reaction prompted Manila Mayor Lito Atienza and lawyer Romulo Macalintal, Pacquiao’s advisers, to warn him against venturing into politics at this point in his career.
Pacquiao has yet to decide on whether or not he is withdrawing from his plans to run for congressman. He said that training is his top priority at the moment.
The boxer, meanwhile, is scheduled to leave for the United States next week to continue training. That would mean he will not be able to personally file his certificate of candidacy before the Commission on Elections.
His camp, however, said Pacquiao can order his lawyers to make a special power of attorney to file the candidacy on his behalf.
Pacquiao’s spokesmen said the boxer feels his goal of helping the people of General Santos is being put aside because of criticisms against the planned candidacy.
The boxer, however, said that he would gladly heed the sentiments of his fans to give them a good fight during his match with Solis in Texas.
The boxer’s camp said in the end, it will be Pacquiao’s decision on whether or not he will throw his hat into the political arena.
Pacquiao, 28, is the World Boxing Council international super featherweight champion.
He has a 43-3 win-loss card and two draws. He won 34 fights by way of technical knockout.
As news of his planned candidacy broke, the administration said Pacquiao will run under the Liberal Party faction of Atienza. The Manila mayor is an ally of President Arroyo.
Lately, Pacquiao has been seen with several politicians allied with the administration, among them Ilocos Sur Gov. and senatorial candidate Luis “Chavit” Singson and Sen. Lito Lapid, who will run for mayor of Makati City.
