'Pacquiaos starting own political dynasty'

MANILA, Philippines - Marbel, South Cotabato Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez yesterday said there are speculations that the Pacquiaos are starting their own political dynasty, after three of them signified their bid to join the May 2013 elections.

Gutierrez, whose diocese covers the provinces of Sarangani and South Cotabato, said that the decision of members of the Pacquiao family to enter politics could be interpreted as the blooming of a political dynasty.

Boxing champ turned Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao is seeking re-election, his wife Jinkee is eyeing the vice gubernatorial seat in Sarangani, while his younger brother Roel was reportedly running for congressman in the first district of South Cotabato.

Gutierrez did not comment on Rep. Pacquiao’s performance in his first term, but described the 33-year-old legislator as someone who “is always out.”

“How many bills has he authored? (But) he is generous (and) some have taken advantage (of him),” the bishop said.

He said the Pacquiaos would be an addition to the list of political dynasties such as the Chiongbians, Antoninos and Constantinos in Mindanao.