MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao made a triumphant return as a Rexona ambassador at the launch of the Rexona Training Camp last Tuesday, Aug. 12 — fitting, not just because he’s known to subject himself to grueling training sessions, but also because of Rexona’s “Do More” campaign (I’m pretty sure the pun was intentional).
The press was collectively welcomed to throw their questions at the boxing champ slash congressman slash PBA coach slash everything else, really, and here are some of his more notable answers — from his favorite workouts, what scares him the most, to retirement plans, if any.
What questions make you break out into a cold sweat?
Manny Pacquiao: Questions about my personal life.
How do you feel about Mommy D having a new boyfriend?
Manny: Gusto ko masaya mama ko. Pero para sa’kin kung magiging masaya ako pero labag sa Panginoon yung ginagawa ko, wag na lang. Mas gugustuhin ko na wag na lang akong maging masaya, basta masunod ko yung kagustuhan ng Panginoon. (I want my mother to be happy. But for me, if what makes me happy is against God, then never mind. I would rather be unhappy, for as long as God’s will is followed.)
What’s your biggest fear?
Manny: Ang mawala ang relasyon ko sa Panginoon. (To lose my relationship with God.)
What’s the secret to being fearless?
Manny: It depends. Pag nandyan sa’yo ang Panginoon, hindi ka galit at hindi ka rin naman takot. (If God is there, you will not be angry and you will not be scared.)
Describe your diet.
Manny: I don’t diet. Kung gaano kadami akong kumain, ganun din ako kadami ako mag-exercise. (I eat as much as I exercise.)
What’s your favorite workout?
Manny: Aside from boxing, basketball, volleyball and badminton.
What about your family?
Manny: Jinky likes Zumba and badminton. Si Mommy D ballet yata (laughs). She likes ballroom. My children love basketball. No one boxes.
Is there anyone among your children who would like to follow in your footsteps?
Manny: Hindi siguro. They love basketball. They’re not fond of boxing. I also discourage them.
Do you plan to retire soon?
Manny: Nako, malungkot na tayo diyan kasi wala na tayong magre-represent sa bansa natin. (That will make people sad because we won’t have anyone to represent the country.) I want to continue my boxing.
You do a lot, from training for fights, joining the PBA draft, being an endorser, and everything else you have to fit into your time. Why do you do all this?
Manny: Sa tingin ko kaya ko. (I think I can.)
How many hours do you have for sleep?
Manny: Six hours.
What’s your inspiration to keep doing more?
Manny: Of course, my family.
* * *
Tweet the author @catedeleon.