Manny Pacquiao considering running for president in Philippines

Manny Pacquiao is already a congressman in the Philippines, and the Filipino boxer says he is considering running for president in his home country one day.

Pacquiao did several interviews on Saturday to promote his upcoming fight with Brandon Rios in China. In an interview with the AFP, he was asked whether he has thought about running for president in his country, and he said yes.

“When I started boxing, of course I was planning, you know, and thinking about getting to become a champion. So when I enter politics it’s the same thing.
“But, you know, it’s far away,” Pacquiao told AFP, adding: “It’s God’s will.”

Pac-Man is 34 years old and coming off consecutive losses, including a devastating knockout defeat to Juan Manuel Marquez that left many concerned about the Filipino’s health. Pacquiao’s family was worried about his well-being, and his mother wants him to stop fighting. Manny says he has been ignoring those concerns as he prepares to face Rios in November, but he knows the end of his fight career is nearing.

Trainer Freddie Roach already said he won’t train Pacquiao any more if the Filipino loses his next fight, which would make it three defeats in a row.

Pacquiao is in his second term as a congressman. He has filed five bills in the country’s house of representatives, mostly related to improving healthcare and fitness. He has also taken an anti-contraceptive stance. Pacquiao’s wife, Jinkee, has also entered politics in the Philippines. She won her election this year to become vice president of a province.