MANILA, Philippines — Sarangani Rep. and boxing champion Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao on Friday filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for senator, entering the senatorial race for the first time.
The boxer-lawmaker will run under the opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) led by Vice President Jejomar Binay.
Pacquiao earlier said he wanted to run under Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte's senatorial slate, but since the mayor did not have clear presidential plans he opted to stay with UNA.
The lawmaker was also seen attending the launch of UNA as the main opposition party in July.
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Pacquiao said that once elected senator, he will focus on health, education, agriculture, peace in Mindanao, athletes and Philippine sports.
"Sa ilang ulit kong paglaban, wala akong taglay na sandata kundi tiwala," Pacquiao said asking for support from public.
"Sa araw na ito si Manny Pacquiao ay nasa harap ninyo tumutugon sa paghamon hindi para sa sarili kundi para sa inyo," Pacquiao said.
Pacquiao was accompanied by his wife, Jinkee, and their children. Former Ilocos Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson also joined the entourage.
Pacquiao just arrived in the country after accepting the distinction Asia Game Changer for 2015 cited by the Asia Society in New York, USA.
Pacquiao expressed his intent to run for senator during his state of the district address on October 5.
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