My Facebook status says it all: why would Manny Pacquiao run for congressman…. why?
It is something that continues to confound me, two days after Pacman, the greatest Pinoy boxer who ever lived, smashed to smithereens the British pug Ricky Hatton.
The obviousness of Pacquiao’s political intentions is signified by the formation of his political party People’s Champ Movement and his introduction in the Las Vegas boxing ring as being from Sarangani province where he’s touted to run next, after being beaten in the last elections in his hometown of General Santos City.
On the issue of his entry to politics, my Facebook friends are divided on the matter.There are some like me who wonder why he has to enter the tarnished world of politics.It sorts of breaks the illusion. Some of us would rather preserve the image of El Pacquiao being the resolute boxer that he is, instead of the traditional politician whose ilk are blamed for bleeding the country’s coffers dry.
I am sure there are fans of his who’d prefer him enjoying the fruits of his labor, instead of braving political rigors.It escapes me why Pacquiao would want greater fame and fortune, when he has it already. If he really wants to help the poor, he can establish a foundation for the purpose, or cooperate with the church and charitable organizations. Better yet, he may choose to support his favorite candidate, as he sees fit.
Besides, isn’t it just predictable? Our boxing hero is merely following in the footsteps of actors, singers and other celebrities who entered the political arena. One said “we’ve had enough of intellectuals in power.” God knows it also didn’t work out the last time we had a man from the movies, known for his funny English, lead the country.
I say we’ve toyed enough with our destiny. The leadership of the country is not a crazy science experiment where if Specimen A doesn’t work, you shall presume Specimen B to be the correct mix.I am just afraid that Pacman is being egged on by several people to run for public office, and these same people will help themselves to the spoils later on, as what always happens.
I wouldn’t fault Manny if his heart really is into politics.If he is,I hope he’ll be a paragon of real service to the country. This is something am trying hard to figure out with only his stellar boxing record to guide me. So help us God.
Hi Annalyn!
I agree 100%. Even though I think Pacquiao is awesomeness in form and power inside the ringed square (i read that somewhere haha), I prefer him to remain as a boxer, and not become a politician.
Just because you used to be poor, doesn’t mean you know how to help them. I hope he realizes that he can help more Filipinos through other means. 😀
I have to agree with you on this – I don’t see a compelling reason for Manny to become a Politician. Still, if he EVER has political aspirations, this is the way to address those desires.
I would expect that the core of his movement will be focusing on sports to empower philippine youth and philippine culture.
Finally, if he doesn’t make a move like this, then politicians will simply flock to him for the “golden touch”, and try to identify their flagging movements with Manny’s rising star.
Hi Annalyn,
Just I clarification, ‘cuz I think you’re referring to my comment to your FB status. I didn’t actually say “we’ve had enough of intellectuals in power” but rather “we’ve done worse with so called ‘intelligent’ people in power.” All I’m saying is Manny appears to be a decent person with laudable qualities: respectful, humble, generous, and despite his considerable wealth, attended school to receive his cherished diploma. If it is his dream to someday be a politician, why should we be an obstacle to that? Why should we be selfish and plan out his life for him? Even if he contributes nothing to the discourse (1 out of 200 intellectual congressmen), his being a decent person speaks volumes, especially to our impressionable young people. Peace.