MANILA, Philippines — Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has set his eyes on politics, hoping to cash in on his popularity when he runs for a House of Representatives seat in May.
“Perhaps I can become a bridge that would bring my district closer to the national government,” the 27-year-old WBC international superfeatherweight champion was quoted as saying Wednesday.
Pacquiao, a former baker and construction worker, said he would seek the seat of his South Cotabato province, running under the pro-administration wing of the Liberal Party in the May 14 congressional polls.
Seeking to dismiss doubts over his qualifications, he said: “Some candidates may be smart but have accomplished nothing. What the people need is not their intelligence but their service to the poor.”
But he is not giving up boxing just yet.
“I can devote time to both my boxing career and my service to the people,” Pacquiao said.
An opposition lawmaker didn’t think it was a good idea.
“This is the wrong ring for him. Politics is a different battle. There are no gloves,” Rep. Roilo Golez said.
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