AFTER that sensational 10-round technical knockout victory scored by Manny Pacquiao over Erik Morales, suggestions or calls for Pacquiao to enter politics immediately followed. He was even touted to be the next “president” of the land. One congressman even said he would vote Pacquaio for prime minister!
But before Pacquiao could be persuaded by any power broker to enter the arena of politics, he better take the cue from another boxing legend, the late Gabriel Flash Elorde, former world junior lightweight champion and oriental lightweight champion in the 1960s. At the height of his popularity, Flash Elorde was also reported to be running for Congress.
On July 25, 1964, the Manila Times reported that Elorde “admitted he might run for Congress in the 1965 Philippine general elections.” It was reported further that “Elorde would run under the Nacionalista Party banner to oppose Liberal incumbent Rep. Ramon Durano in the first district of Cebu.”
However, the July 27, 1964 issue of Manila Times carried in its sports page a news item where “Elorde denies he’s running for Congress.” Elorde clarified that “he never had plans nor has any of entering politics at the expense of his career.”
“At the expense of his career” — this should be the guiding principle for Pacquiao if ever he mulls over any plans to enter politics. He should take it from Elorde. Once he enters politics, Pacquiao will certainly sacrifice his career. Once he chooses or affiliates himself with a political party, he will be caught in the political crossfire of opposing candidates and political organizations.
Let’s hope Pacquiao will not hang up his gloves for politics. He should follow the example set by Flash Elorde on this score. Pacquiao should set the standard that our politics should not be based on mere popularity but on the ability and competence of candidates to lead our nation to greatness. Pacquiao has his own role to play in the ring. He has played it well not only for himself but for our country’s honor and jubilation. He should let it remain that way. Like the greatness exemplified by Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.
ROMULO B. MACALINTAL, Philamlife Village, Las Pi?as City
