MANILA, Philippines?Saranggani Representative and boxing champion Manny Pacquiao said he is all geared up to face another major challenge in his career, this time as a member of the House of Representatives.
In fact, the neophyte politician said he is raring to take the floor of the session hall and deliver a privilege speech during the first week of the opening of the 15th Congress on July 26.
?If our request to deliver a privilege speech on July 28 will be granted, then we will be thankful for that,? he told reporters after attending the orientation for new House members Thursday.
Asked if he is nervous to speak in the session hall, Pacquiao said, ?No. I won?t be nervous as I?m excited to represent Saranggani. I don?t want to become an embarrassment for my town mates.?
Pacquiao pledged to be present during session days to show his constituents he is serious about being a lawmaker.
Asked if he supports raising taxes of sin products, considering that he is an endorser for a beer brand, he said he would study the matter.
But the former bakery worker was quick to add that he would not oppose additional taxes it they would benefit the public, especially the poor.
Pacquiao also said he intends to file a bill to require all barangay (villages) to allot at least five hectares of their land area for reforestation. He said he also wants to build a hospital and a university for his district.
