Manny Pacquiao says that he was shocked and “alarmed” to learn about a terrorist group’s plot to kidnap him or someone from his family for ransom. He also was surprised that the Philippines’ president stated this information publicly in an interview.
During the week, Philippines president Benigno Aquino revealed in an interview that Muslim group Abu Sayyaf had plans to abduct Pacquiao or his children. Abu Sayyaf recently claimed responsibility for beheading a Canadian man.
“I was alarmed when he announced… the Abu Sayyaf wanted to kidnap me. I’m surprised because all Filipinos are my friends. I love them, especially the Muslims,” Pacquiao said via AFP.
Pacquiao also said he responded by increasing his security.
“We asked for security, protection for my kids, my family to make sure they are safe, especially as I’m not there right now,” Pacquiao said.
The famous boxer said matters should have been kept a secret so as not to worry the public. Abu Sayyaf is believed to have around 20 more people held captive.
Pacquiao is not only a well known and beloved figure in the Philippines because of his boxing success, but also because he is a political leader currently making a senate run.
