Pacquiao confirms return to politics

LOS ANGELES – It’s a go for Manny Pacquiao’s bid in the 2010 elections.

For the first time in his many fights here in the US, the world’s greatest boxer was formally introduced by ring announcer Michael Buffer as “the pride of Saranggani Province” in the Philippines, and no longer “the pride of Gen. Santos City.”

Pacquiao ran for a congressional seat in the second district of Gen. Santos City in 2007 but lost. In the 2010 elections, the 30-year-old boxer, and the most famous personality in the country, is running for Congress in Saranggani Province.

Against anyone.

Pacquiao said Sunday, a day after his spectacular knockout win over Britain’s Ricky Hatton, that yes, it’s on to the next elections. He was asked when he would start his bid going?

“Ako? Kung gumagalaw na? Noong 2008 pa ako gumagalaw (Me? Moving? I started moving since 2008),” he told scribes during the 300-mile journey from Las Vegas to Los Angeles.

“Tumataas na yung punong itinayo ko (The tree that I planted is getting taller).”

“Magbubunga na (It’s about to bear fruit). Next year is harvest time,” said Pacquiao without elaborating.

Pacquiao, who came from very humble beginnings, is well-loved by his provincemates, especially the poor, who turn to him seven days a week, night and day.

Even Bob Arum is humbled by Pacquiao’s generosity, and his clear intentions of helping his people. And how he rose from poverty to become the richest Filipino athlete ever.

“For some of his life he lived in a cardboard shack. Then he became a very prominent athlete. But he has never forgotten where he came from,” Pacquiao told a packed press conference in Las Vegas last week.

“And that a tremendous percentage of what he earns goes back to the poor. Whether it’s feeding or sending 500 kids to school or donating hospital beds, and people sitting in front of his house two full days and he gives them money and food,” said Arum, now a constant visitor to the Philippines and Gen. Santos City.

“I can tell you that the Philippines has the best social welfare system in the world and it’s called Manny Pacquiao.” – Abac Cordero