MANILA - The thunder from Many Pacquiao’s victory over challenger Jorge Solis in San Antonio, Texas April 14 , has been somewhat tempered by his running as a congressional candidate to represent General Santos city against incumbent Rep. Darlene Antonino.
He convincingly knocked down the undefeated Mexican fighter early in the eighth our of a 12-round bout.
Despite doubts by veteran politicians, Pacquiao said his performance in the ring also showed that he would be able to stand the rigors of politics, particularly lawmaking. This is exactly what his intelligent followers doubt he would be able to hurdle. Still, Pacquiao said his Filipino fans who had opposed his political plans may now have a change of heart after his victory over Solis.
Pacquiao updated reporters on his political plans after he was welcomed in Manila with a motorcade April 16 and a courtesy call on President Arroyo at Malacanang. "My heart tells me to serve. Sometimes I wish we can trade hearts so that you will know how I feel," he said.
“My boxing is for the country’s honor,
but this political fight, will be the people who will choose. Let’s respect the
people who will vote and choose their leaders whom they think will bring
progress to their district,” he said.
In a statement, Mrs. Arroyo again hailed
the latest ring conquest of Pacquiao who, she said, “has once again brought
victory and pride to the nation.”
“His physical strength is matched by a
tenacious will to uplift his countrymen with every win. We welcome him home as
the people’s idol and this generation’s shining light,” Mrs. Arroyo said.
The President also said that she and her
family were “touched” by the concern shown by Pacquiao for First Gentleman Jose
Miguel Arroyo, who is recuperating at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City
after undergoing major heart surgery last April 9. Pacquiao earlier said he and
his family had prayed hard for Mr. Arroyo’s immediate recovery.
Manila city officials led by Mayor Lito
Atienza welcomed Pacquiao and another victorious Filipino boxer Bernabe
Concepcion upon their arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Terminal II early yesterday morning.
Sought for comment on his lack of
experience in legislating, he said what’s important is that he “only thinks of
what is best for the people.” He said even the lawmakers themselves hire the
services of lawyers or advisers in crafting bills.
Pacquiao said he will not quit boxing
even if he wins in the congressional elections.
“I do not let fame go to my head, the
Lord knows that,” he said.
“Boxing did not just put me to fame. It
also made me realize how many people are in need. I guess the Lord showed me
this path, so I can help my people,” he said.
Pacquiao said his next bout, possibly in
October , would be against Juan Manuel
Marquez or Marco Antonio Barrera of Mexico or Joan Guzman of Dominican Republic.
He said he would finance his election
campaign through his friends’_ donations, saying his prize money went to his
wife Jinkee. He said he would try to improve the infrastructure in his hometown.
“The only thing new in General Santos is my mansion,” he said in jest.
