No talks on tax woes? Pacquiao pays courtesy call on Aquino

MANILA, Philippines – Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao on Monday paid his courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III following his recent victory over Timothy Bradley Jr.

An article on the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) website said Pacquiao went to the Malacañang Music Room at 2 p.m. and was accompanied by members of his staff and supporters.

But in an earlier press briefing past noon, PCOO head Herminio Coloma Jr. did not disclose the details of Pacquiao's courtesy call. He only said that it was a "just a meeting between friends."

"Usually 'pag sinabi nating talking points it's a business meeting. Meron talagang naka-set na agenda. Sa aking palagay ito ay pagkikita lamang ng dalawang magkaibigan at pagpapalitan ng paghanga at pasasalamat," Coloma said in a press briefing.

Asked if Pacquiao's tax liabilities were discussed during  the meeting between the President and the Filipino boxing champion, Coloma said the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has been dealing with the matter.

"Batid na rin naman natin simula 'nung nag-umpisa 'yang usapin na 'yan ay nagkaroon na ng friendly engagement between Commissioner [Kim] Henares and Congressman Pacquiao," Coloma said.

Even before Pacquaio defeated Timothy Bradley a week ago, the media reported that Henares reminded Pacquiao to pay his tax liabilities.

But following Pacquiao's victory, the Palace was quick to defend Henares, saying she was only doing her job as BIR chief.

Henares had also said that she only reminded Pacquiao of his tax duties because she was asked by the media.

Coloma said during the "friendly engagements" between Pacquiao and Henares, there was no hostility between the two.

"Nililinaw lang natin: There is no ill will or animosity that is present in all of these conversations," Coloma said.

With his latest victory over Timothy Bradley Jr., the Filipino boxing icon avenged his controversial split decision loss to American fighter in their first bout in 2012.

Pacquiao also regained the World Boxing Organization welterweight title from Bradley after winning via a unanimous decision.