MANILA, Philippines ? (UPDATE) Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao paid a courtesy call to President Benigno Aquino III Saturday, following his arrival from the US earlier in the day, according to radio and television reports.
Aquino led the welcome in Malaca?ang for Pacquiao who brought home the super welterweight crown, his eighth in as many divisions, after defeating Antonio Margarito via unanimous decision at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas last November 14 (Manila time).
Pacquiao gave Aquino a miniature replica of his boxing championship belt and a souvenir “Team Pacquiao” T-shirt.
Pacquiao, 31, said that he would help the country as a congressman after winning a historic eighth world title. “I don’t want to say I will retire [from boxing.] There are still some fights in my future, but for now, let us forget boxing and focus on service… especially helping those in my district,” Pacquiao told reporters.
Pacquiao, who was elected congressman of the impoverished southern province of Sarangani in May, brushed aside questions he would someday run for president. “I am not that ambitious. That is not in my thoughts now. My work as a congressman, that is my focus,” he replied.
In a joint press conference with Aquino, Pacquiao said he was willing to serve as a “poster boy” for the country’s tourism industry and in peace talks with Muslim separatist rebels in the south, where he is held in high regard.
However Aquino said the government did not want to ask too much of the boxing hero. “We have too many tasks for Manny,” Aquino laughed.
Pacquiao is scheduled to give a concert later this Saturday before flying on Thursday to General Santos where another rousing welcome is expected.
