MANILA, Philippines — More and more people are expressing their opposition to Manny Pacquiao throwing his hat into the political arena.
Online polls, and even people in the streets, are against his political ambition, saying he should stick to boxing and make hay there while the sun still shines.
I know he wants to serve the people, but he can be of help in so many other ways without entering politics, which is an entirely different ball game.
Pacquiao better think twice. Why is he in a hurry? Has money and fame corrupted his thinking?
Except for Manila Mayor Lito Atienza, one of his closest friends, and Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson, a senatorial bet, many want Manny to drop his political plans, among them reader Amador Moriles of Capoocan, Leyte, and youth leader Harvey Keh, who e-mailed the national boxing hero’s close associates about their opposition to Pacquiao’s political plans.
Text messages that I have read also expressed their apprehension about it. “Hindi niya puwedeng pagsabayin ang pagbo-boksing at paggawa ng batas (He cannot mix boxing and lawmaking at the same time).” Another said, “If Pacman backs out of politics, it would even be a great opportunity to boost his career. His fans will love him more.”
Still another said, “Pacquiao’s withdrawal will certainly make his mother (Dionesia) happy. Mother knows best.”
Pacquiao will meet unbeaten Mexican Jorge Solis on April 14 at the Alamadome in San Antonio, Texas.
