MANILA, Philippines – A Catholic Church official asked the public yesterday to respect the decision of Sarangani representative and boxing champ Manny ?Pacman? Pacquiao to join the political party Partido Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban (PDP-Laban) of Vice President Jejomar Binay.
Marbel South, Cotabato Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez said Pacquiao is old enough to make decisions on his own.
?Pacman is mature and intelligent. Respect his decision,? Gutierrez said.
Sarangani province is one of the areas under the Diocese of Marbel, South Cotabato, which the bishop heads.
Gutierrez said his statement stems from his concern about the faith and morals of people, rather than politics.
Pacquiao was earlier reported to be leaving the Liberal Party of President Aquino to join Binay?s camp.
The 33-year-old boxer-turned-legislator is reportedly being groomed to be the PDP-Laban?s gubernatorial candidate in Sarangani in next year?s elections.
Pacquiao might take his oath as party member of PDP-Laban before his next fight with Timothy Bradley in June.
