PERHAPS TRYING to prove to skeptics that his brain is also as quick as his hands, boxing icon Manny Pacquiao took an aptitude test supervised by the Department of Education – and passed it.
He took the test a few weeks ago after his political plans were slowly being firmed up. One of the strongest criticisms against him was that he does not have the proper education to participate in a debate in Congress or craft a law or conduct a public hearing should he be elected.
The educaton department is expected to hold a press conference today to discuss the nature of the test and why Pacquiao took it.
Pacquiao’s brother Bobby, also a boxer, likewise took the same test and flunked it. Which also goes to show why Manny is a champion and Bobby is not.
By passing the test, Pacquiao’s political plans may have been reinforced.
“I don’t recall what it is officially called,” said a Pacquiao insider who requested not to be identified because he’s not allowed to disclose the matter. “But it is yardstick for those people who are eyeing to enter college. Manny’s success in hurdling the examinations showed that he is qualified to study in college.”
Pacquiao finished elementary schooling and dropped out after first year high school in Gen. Santos City to help his family by earning a living.
Pacquiao is eyeing a congressional seat in the first district of South Cotabato. As of yesterday, Pacquiao hasn’t filed his certificate of candidacy with the Comelec.
Pacquiao is in the early stages of his training for an April 14 showdown with unbeaten Mexican Jorge Solis at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.
Pacquiao plans to leave for the States early next month to resume his training at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood.
