'Filipino Flash' nixes career in politics

MANILA, Philippines - Unlike Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao, Nonito Donaire Jr. has no plans of joining the political arena in the future.

Donaire, who retained his World Boxing Association (WBA) super flyweight crown recently, said he would instead concentrate on helping develop amateur boxers and produce more world champions than join politics the way Pacquiao did.

Donaire dubbed the Filipino Flash, made the announcement during a courtesy call to Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim at the Manila City Hall yesterday.

The 27-year-old Bohol native stopped Mexican Hernan Marquez in the eighth round of their July 10 fight in Puerto Rico with the Filipino Flash looking forward to sealing a showdown with Mexican champion Fernando Montiel.

Donaire, however, said he has never been mentioned among the reigning WBC (World Boxing Council) and WBO (World Boxing Organization) bantamweight champion’s next possible opponents.

Lim, meanwhile, lauded Donaire for bringing glory and pride to the country again with his latest victory.

Donaire’s promoter Wilson Tieng of Solar Films along with wife Rachel were also present during the courtesy call where the boxing champ presented his championship belt to the city’s chief executive.

Lim said the city government is still studying how to reward Donaire for his latest feat.   

But Donaire said the support and love given him by the Manileños “are more than enough gift to me.”

“The special people who help me out and support me give me inspiration and they are part of my victory,” he said.