September 09, 2009 17:48:00
Dr. Bernardo Villegas
INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—I have no doubts that to millions of OFWs everywhere, world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao is a source of great pride. He is acclaimed as the best boxer pound for pound in the whole world.
All of us Filipinos are now hoping and praying that he will once again triumph on November 14, 2009 when he faces Miguel Coto for the world welterweight title.
In his last celebrated match with Ricky Hatton, he brought untold glory to the Philippines. And he did it with such humility and grace. Furthermore, he gave the millions of people all over the world who witnessed the fight an outstanding example of how he takes his Catholic faith seriously, throwing away any human respect by praying openly (especially in a country where displaying a crucifix publicly is declared illegal in some states).
Finally, as an economist, I can say that his victory in the ring could not have come at a better time. He did much to boost the optimism of his countrymen, counteracting the worldwide gloom brought about by the global recession. He might not have been aware of it but the high spirits of Filipinos could have added a few decimal points to the growth of our GDP this year since an optimistic mood usually contributes to higher consumption, all other things being equal. His possible victory over Coto could even make a 5 percent growth of GDP possible in 2010.
I am, however, very concerned about the advice Manny is getting from some people who may not necessarily be thinking of his welfare but of their own selfish interests. I am referring to his considering to run again for another political position.
Let us all join forces in giving him unsolicited advice. Manny, please avoid politics like the plague. You can do much more good for your country by devoting all your energies and resources to training some promising young Filipino boxers so that they can reap all the medals possible in boxing during the next Olympics in London in 2012. You have proved that Filipinos can be world class in boxing. With your leadership and guidance, the Philippines can be a world power in boxing in very much the same way that a small and poor country like Ethiopia has produced champions in track and field.
Just think of how a good number of young Filipinos are following your footsteps. Recently, Marvin Sonsona won the superflyweight championship. Then there are Donny Nietes, who is the minimum weight king; Nonito Donaire, superflyweight champ; and Brian Viloria, who bagged the lightflyweight prize. There must be many young Filipino teenagers who are still amateur boxers whom you can take under your wings and prepare them to win Olympic medals in 2012.
I have talked to my colleagues at the Makati Business Club and they are ready to mobilize support for you if you decide to be the boxing czar of the Philippines. I am sure your friend Manny Pangilinan will also be more than happy to help in your efforts to prepare Filipino boxers to win medals in the Olympics of 2012. There is no other person better situated and qualified than you to help our country finally stop the very long drought that we have suffered in the world Olympics. Without underestimating your leadership qualities that can be tapped in a political post, what we economists call the "opportunity cost" of your unique talents in boxing is too high to be wasted in what could be a mediocre post in local politics. There are others who can do that job. There is only one Manny Pacquiao who can bring more boxing glory to the Philippines.
Pushing our luck further in giving you unsolicited advice, let us also suggest that instead of getting involved in local politics in your region of Southern Cotabato you may want to support through your foundation some worthy NGOs that are contributing to the eradication of poverty. Among others, there is the Business Resource Center of the Notre Dame University of General Santos. It is one of the few local think tanks in the whole Philippines that are helping both government officials and private entrepreneurs to formulate realistic development plans for the good of the region. It conducts research on the economic situation in Southern Cotabato and identifies investment prospects for entrepreneurs. The BRC can help you identify development programs that you may want to support for the welfare of the entire region of Southern Cotabato.
You may also identify projects of Gawad Kalinga that has devised the most efficient approach to providing housing for the poor in the context of a holistic approach to community development. Then there are training programs for industrial workers as well as farmers that have been successful in other regions that you may want to have replicated in Southern Cotabato. In this search for effective models for poverty eradication, BRC can also help you identify the right partners. In short, I am asking you to act like a Bill Gates who uses a great part of his wealth to address the needs of the underprivileged in many parts of the world. Your world could be General Santos City and the surrounding areas.
If after eight years of producing world-class boxers for the 2012 and 2016 Olympics while acting as a local version of Bill Gates, you still aspire to enter politics, then you will be in a better position to convince the voters to elect you for a high national office, even as President, after you turn forty in 2019. By then, you would have brought more glory to the Philippines and would have acquired much knowledge about the requirements of development. But for now, we sincerely believe that entering politics can do you more harm than good. The email address of Manny Pacquiao is mannypacquiao@abante-tonite.com.
For comments, my email address is bvillegas@uap.edu.ph.
SOURCE
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Pacquiao throws first punch in political battle for Sarangani
MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao has thrown the first punch in his upcoming political battle against a well-known clan in Sarangani, signaling the start of election season in the southern province.
Pacquiao will once again try his luck in the political ring in next year’s elections, this time running in the lone congressional district of Sarangani where he is expected to face a member of the Chiongbian family.
The world’s top pound-for-pound fighter, in an interview aired in GMA’s Weekend Report, said the main reason he is running in Sarangani is that he failed to see any significant change during the Chiongbians' 14-year reign in the House of Representatives accusing the long-time political clan of doing nothing to uplift the lives of the poor.
“Kung satisfied ako siguro sa ginagawa nila ‘di na ako tatakbo dahil masaya ako. Susuportahan ko na lang sila," said Pacquiao.
“Nakita ko naman na kulang talaga. In how many years, wala silang naitulong sa mga tao," he added.
The statement did not sit well with incumbent Rep. Erwin Chiongbian, who vowed that his family would not give up the congressional post easily.
The Chiongbians are known as a political dynasty in Sarangani. The late James L. Chiongbian is considered as the father of the province, having helped pass House Bill 00046 that created Sarangani as a separate province from South Cotabato.
The three-term lawmaker said a member of his family would run in the 2010 elections to replace him in the House of Representatives. “That’s our intention because we cannot abandon the province," he said.
Even as he acknowledged that Pacquiao has the fame and resources to launch a formidable campaign, Chiongbian said the people of Sarangani province would ultimately be the ones to decide in the 2010 elections.
“This is politics. It's different from boxing. If it’s boxing, I give up," said the 65-year-old lawmaker.
Pacquiao has announced his intention of seeking a congressional seat in Sarangani, his wife Jinkee’s province, in the 2010 national elections.
The reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) light welterweight champion’s party, the People's Champ Movement (PCM), has been accredited by the Commission on Elections at the local level.
Pacquiao ran for a congressional seat in 2007 in the first district of South Cotabato as an adopted member of Kampi, the political party of President Gloria Arroyo.
However, he was knocked out by re-electionist Darlene Antonino-Custodio, who handily beat the boxing champ with a margin of more than 60,000 votes. - JONATHAN PEREZ, GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Pacquiao will once again try his luck in the political ring in next year’s elections, this time running in the lone congressional district of Sarangani where he is expected to face a member of the Chiongbian family.
The world’s top pound-for-pound fighter, in an interview aired in GMA’s Weekend Report, said the main reason he is running in Sarangani is that he failed to see any significant change during the Chiongbians' 14-year reign in the House of Representatives accusing the long-time political clan of doing nothing to uplift the lives of the poor.
“Kung satisfied ako siguro sa ginagawa nila ‘di na ako tatakbo dahil masaya ako. Susuportahan ko na lang sila," said Pacquiao.
“Nakita ko naman na kulang talaga. In how many years, wala silang naitulong sa mga tao," he added.
The statement did not sit well with incumbent Rep. Erwin Chiongbian, who vowed that his family would not give up the congressional post easily.
The Chiongbians are known as a political dynasty in Sarangani. The late James L. Chiongbian is considered as the father of the province, having helped pass House Bill 00046 that created Sarangani as a separate province from South Cotabato.
The three-term lawmaker said a member of his family would run in the 2010 elections to replace him in the House of Representatives. “That’s our intention because we cannot abandon the province," he said.
Even as he acknowledged that Pacquiao has the fame and resources to launch a formidable campaign, Chiongbian said the people of Sarangani province would ultimately be the ones to decide in the 2010 elections.
“This is politics. It's different from boxing. If it’s boxing, I give up," said the 65-year-old lawmaker.
Pacquiao has announced his intention of seeking a congressional seat in Sarangani, his wife Jinkee’s province, in the 2010 national elections.
The reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) light welterweight champion’s party, the People's Champ Movement (PCM), has been accredited by the Commission on Elections at the local level.
Pacquiao ran for a congressional seat in 2007 in the first district of South Cotabato as an adopted member of Kampi, the political party of President Gloria Arroyo.
However, he was knocked out by re-electionist Darlene Antonino-Custodio, who handily beat the boxing champ with a margin of more than 60,000 votes. - JONATHAN PEREZ, GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Stick to boxing, bishop urges Pacquiao
MANILA, Philippines – People's champion Manny Pacquiao should stick to boxing instead of running for Congress in 2010, a Church official today said.
Marbel bishop Dinualdo Gutirrez said if Pacquiao really wants to help his constituents in Saranggani province, the world's No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer can put up a foundation that will send children to school or provide jobs to the unemployed.
"He could put up a foundation for example, scholarships, foundation for health care, foundation for a jobs, he can do that instead. He must capitalize on his stature to get some credible and competent people to manage the foundation," Gutierrez said today in an interview with the Church-run Radio Veritas.
The bishop said Pacquiao will most likely lose again in his congressional, this time in Saranggani province, for his lack of political experience and credibility. He previously ran for congressman in South Cotabato and suffered a lopsided defeat to incumbent Darlene Custodio.
"Here we follow the three three Cs in voting candidates: credibility, commitment and competence. (In the) last election, we said he (Pacquiao) had credibility. He also had commitment to the Filipino people especially the poor. But in the field of competence, he fails. And this time, even his credibility is being questioned now," Gutierrez said.
He said Pacquiao's association with gamblers is also one factor that would go against the boxing icon.
"Especially with his gambler friends and the way he is getting lands here are all questionable. We have to look into that deeper," he said.
Gutierrez claimed that some friends and administration officials are the ones who have prodded Pacquiao to run for an elective post despite his lack of political experience.
SOURCE
Marbel bishop Dinualdo Gutirrez said if Pacquiao really wants to help his constituents in Saranggani province, the world's No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer can put up a foundation that will send children to school or provide jobs to the unemployed.
"He could put up a foundation for example, scholarships, foundation for health care, foundation for a jobs, he can do that instead. He must capitalize on his stature to get some credible and competent people to manage the foundation," Gutierrez said today in an interview with the Church-run Radio Veritas.
The bishop said Pacquiao will most likely lose again in his congressional, this time in Saranggani province, for his lack of political experience and credibility. He previously ran for congressman in South Cotabato and suffered a lopsided defeat to incumbent Darlene Custodio.
"Here we follow the three three Cs in voting candidates: credibility, commitment and competence. (In the) last election, we said he (Pacquiao) had credibility. He also had commitment to the Filipino people especially the poor. But in the field of competence, he fails. And this time, even his credibility is being questioned now," Gutierrez said.
He said Pacquiao's association with gamblers is also one factor that would go against the boxing icon.
"Especially with his gambler friends and the way he is getting lands here are all questionable. We have to look into that deeper," he said.
Gutierrez claimed that some friends and administration officials are the ones who have prodded Pacquiao to run for an elective post despite his lack of political experience.
SOURCE
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
November fight may be the last for politics-bound Pacquiao
MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao appears bent on entering the political ring that he is seriously contemplating leaving the boxing ring for good.
The reigning pound-for-pound king declared he is good for one last fight, his projected November 14 gig at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas intended to be his swan song.
“Siguro last fight ko na ito para magserbisyo naman ako sa mga tao," Pacquiao said in an interview on 24 Oras.
“Ang mama ko nga ayaw na niya akong lumaban pero sabi ko, kaya ko pa naman, isa pa," added the two-time Fighter of the Year, whose camp is currently in negotiations with WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto for a possible showdown.
Pacquiao is eyeing a congressional post in Saranggani Province in next year’s elections and he has already set the wheels in motion for this bid by forming his own local party, the People’s Champ Movement, and setting residence in the province.
Over the weekend, he graced the celebrations for the founding anniversary of the district of Malapatan, where he publicly expressed his intention to serve them as congressman.
“Itong mga kamao ko na ginamit ko pang-knockout sa mga kalaban sa boxing, gagamitin ko para makatulong sa inyo," he told his highly-appreciative “constituents."
To show his seriousness to help the townsfolk, Pacquiao, one of the highest-paid athletes in the world according to Forbes magazine and one of the most influential people based on a list by Time magazine, donated an ambulance and fire-truck for the district’s use.
This would be the Pacman’s second attempt at a House seat after getting knocked out in 2007 by incumbent Rep. Darlene Custodio over in South Cotabato district.
But before Pacquiao could train his 100 percent attention to politics, he has to take care of one more business in the ring first.
Currently, his promoter is in talks with fellow Top Rank fighter Cotto for his “lash hurrah."
The Filipino ring icon himself had greenlit the negotiations with Cotto after personally seeing the Puerto Rican fight and escape with a split decision win over challenger Joshua Clottey in New York last June 13.
Top Rank boss Bob Arum had expressed confidence he would get Pacquiao and Cotto to sign on soon for what he described as a terrific fight. Among the issues still to be ironed out are the purse split and possible catch weight. – GMANews.Tv
SOURCE
The reigning pound-for-pound king declared he is good for one last fight, his projected November 14 gig at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas intended to be his swan song.
“Siguro last fight ko na ito para magserbisyo naman ako sa mga tao," Pacquiao said in an interview on 24 Oras.
“Ang mama ko nga ayaw na niya akong lumaban pero sabi ko, kaya ko pa naman, isa pa," added the two-time Fighter of the Year, whose camp is currently in negotiations with WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto for a possible showdown.
Pacquiao is eyeing a congressional post in Saranggani Province in next year’s elections and he has already set the wheels in motion for this bid by forming his own local party, the People’s Champ Movement, and setting residence in the province.
Over the weekend, he graced the celebrations for the founding anniversary of the district of Malapatan, where he publicly expressed his intention to serve them as congressman.
“Itong mga kamao ko na ginamit ko pang-knockout sa mga kalaban sa boxing, gagamitin ko para makatulong sa inyo," he told his highly-appreciative “constituents."
To show his seriousness to help the townsfolk, Pacquiao, one of the highest-paid athletes in the world according to Forbes magazine and one of the most influential people based on a list by Time magazine, donated an ambulance and fire-truck for the district’s use.
This would be the Pacman’s second attempt at a House seat after getting knocked out in 2007 by incumbent Rep. Darlene Custodio over in South Cotabato district.
But before Pacquiao could train his 100 percent attention to politics, he has to take care of one more business in the ring first.
Currently, his promoter is in talks with fellow Top Rank fighter Cotto for his “lash hurrah."
The Filipino ring icon himself had greenlit the negotiations with Cotto after personally seeing the Puerto Rican fight and escape with a split decision win over challenger Joshua Clottey in New York last June 13.
Top Rank boss Bob Arum had expressed confidence he would get Pacquiao and Cotto to sign on soon for what he described as a terrific fight. Among the issues still to be ironed out are the purse split and possible catch weight. – GMANews.Tv
SOURCE
Friday, June 19, 2009
Erap endorses 'Pacman' for Congress
Manny Pacquiao’s political aspiration got a “major boost” after former President Joseph Estrada endorsed his plan to run as representative of Sarangani Province.
Estrada extended his political support for Pacquiao during his visit to General Santos City on Thursday.
“Hindi lang ako, buong bayan [ini-]endorse si Manny,” said Estrada. “Si Manny galing sa hirap kaya gusto niyang tulungan mga kababayan niyang mahihirap dito.”
He then raised the boxer’s hand as if to signify a sure political winner.
“Hindi ko maipakita sobrang tuwa ko sa suporta niya. Maraming salamat,” said the delighted Pacquiao. “’Di lang sa boxing niya ako sinuportahan kundi pati sa pangarap ko sa buhay.”
Pacquiao thanked Estrada for accepting his invitation to visit GenSan.
He said it was an honor to have been paid a visit by the opposition leader.
“Karangalan na bisitahin at paunlakan ang imbitasyon ko ng mahal na pangulong Erap. Malaking karangalan na nabisita at pinagbigyan niya ang imbitasyon ko,” said the international boxing superstar.
Pacquiao and Estrada said they are open to the possibility of “combining their forces” for the local elections, despite the boxer’s ties with the administration.
Pacquiao was allied with administration parties Lakas-CMD and Kampi during the 2007 elections when he ran for congressman in South Cotabato. He, however, lost to incumbent Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio of the opposition. -- With a report from Sheryl Mundo, ABS-CBN News
SOURCE
Estrada extended his political support for Pacquiao during his visit to General Santos City on Thursday.
“Hindi lang ako, buong bayan [ini-]endorse si Manny,” said Estrada. “Si Manny galing sa hirap kaya gusto niyang tulungan mga kababayan niyang mahihirap dito.”
He then raised the boxer’s hand as if to signify a sure political winner.
“Hindi ko maipakita sobrang tuwa ko sa suporta niya. Maraming salamat,” said the delighted Pacquiao. “’Di lang sa boxing niya ako sinuportahan kundi pati sa pangarap ko sa buhay.”
Pacquiao thanked Estrada for accepting his invitation to visit GenSan.
He said it was an honor to have been paid a visit by the opposition leader.
“Karangalan na bisitahin at paunlakan ang imbitasyon ko ng mahal na pangulong Erap. Malaking karangalan na nabisita at pinagbigyan niya ang imbitasyon ko,” said the international boxing superstar.
Pacquiao and Estrada said they are open to the possibility of “combining their forces” for the local elections, despite the boxer’s ties with the administration.
Pacquiao was allied with administration parties Lakas-CMD and Kampi during the 2007 elections when he ran for congressman in South Cotabato. He, however, lost to incumbent Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio of the opposition. -- With a report from Sheryl Mundo, ABS-CBN News
SOURCE
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
‘Ambassador’ Pacquiao to launch ‘boxing for peace and understanding’
MANILA, Philippines – “Ambassador for peace and understanding" Manny Pacquiao will assist President Arroyo in launching a groundbreaking tournament featuring amateur boxers from the military, police and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Dubbed as the “Tournament for Peace and Understanding," the competition for non RP team pugilists will coincide with the inauguration of the Philippine Sports Commission-Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines Gym at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex later this month.
Pacquiao, recognized as the best fighter in the world today, and the President will be joined in the landmark event by PSC chairman Harry Angping, ABAP chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, ABAP president Ricky Vargas, and dignitaries from the government, private and sports sectors.
“The idea for this unique contest was hatched during an affair at the Palace attended by (PSC) Chairman Angping and Manny Pacquiao," ABAP executive director Ed Picson said, referring to the Pacman's courtesy call last week after his victory over Ricky Hatton.
“It is designed to foster camaraderie through sports among the military, the police, the MILF and the MNLF. And that instead of fighting it out in the battlefields, they can duke it out in the boxing ring and then embrace each other after the bouts," he added.
The tournament calls for each team to have three to six participants, with the competition lasting three to four days and serving as prototype for future nationwide tourneys of the same objective.
This will be the first time in boxing history that elements from MNLF and MILF will be invited to participate in a boxing competition along with the military services and the national police.
“With the PSC-ABAP gym’s inauguration, the President must have thought it providential to launch a sports event that will promote brotherhood and goodwill among Filipinos," Picson said.
Invited to do the blessing for the two-story edifice, complete with a standard-sized ring and air-conditioned living quarters, is Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales. - GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Dubbed as the “Tournament for Peace and Understanding," the competition for non RP team pugilists will coincide with the inauguration of the Philippine Sports Commission-Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines Gym at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex later this month.
Pacquiao, recognized as the best fighter in the world today, and the President will be joined in the landmark event by PSC chairman Harry Angping, ABAP chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, ABAP president Ricky Vargas, and dignitaries from the government, private and sports sectors.
“The idea for this unique contest was hatched during an affair at the Palace attended by (PSC) Chairman Angping and Manny Pacquiao," ABAP executive director Ed Picson said, referring to the Pacman's courtesy call last week after his victory over Ricky Hatton.
“It is designed to foster camaraderie through sports among the military, the police, the MILF and the MNLF. And that instead of fighting it out in the battlefields, they can duke it out in the boxing ring and then embrace each other after the bouts," he added.
The tournament calls for each team to have three to six participants, with the competition lasting three to four days and serving as prototype for future nationwide tourneys of the same objective.
This will be the first time in boxing history that elements from MNLF and MILF will be invited to participate in a boxing competition along with the military services and the national police.
“With the PSC-ABAP gym’s inauguration, the President must have thought it providential to launch a sports event that will promote brotherhood and goodwill among Filipinos," Picson said.
Invited to do the blessing for the two-story edifice, complete with a standard-sized ring and air-conditioned living quarters, is Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales. - GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Pacquiao calls on NPA rebels to end fighting
MANILA, Philippines - Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday called on the New People’s Army to end its almost four-decade-long insurgency.
Pacquiao, in an ambush interview Tuesday in General Santos City, said he would like to try the role of a peace maker and vowed to do everything he can to convince the rebels to lay down their arms.
The boxer, who has initially been named ambassador of peace understanding and later called by President Arroyo as “apostle of peace and understanding," attended the Social Integration Program (SIP) presentation and awarding ceremony to seven former rebels in Phela Grande Convention Center in General Santos.
“Katulad ngayon, masaya tayo dahil may mga ilang kababayang rebels na nagbalik sa pamahalaan, masaya tayo diyan…At nanawagan ako sa lahat na nasa bundok pa pwede na silang bumalik loob sa pamahalaan. Pwede akong kausapin nila at tawagan," he added.
(Right now, I am happy because some of our rebel brothers have returned to the folds of the law…I calling on other rebels to lay down their arms too. They can call me and I will talk to them.)
Talks resumption
Presidential adviser on the peace process Avelino Razon Jr. said the government is looking at the possible resumption of negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) within the next two months.
“We have good news. It seems that both panels, the government panel and the CPP-NPA-NDF, are now ready to return to the negotiating table," Razon said in a briefing in General Santos City.
He said it is now just a matter of continuing the informal meetings to be able to set the agenda and set the date for the formal meeting.
“We are looking at sometime end of June or July makikita natin ito in progress," he added.
Razon, in a text message, said Norway remains the facilitator of the talks between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF and are expected to host the formal talk when it resumes.
Asked if some of the points raised by the CPP-NPA-NDF had already been addressed or resolved, he said it would be discussed when the panels meet.
Symbol of peace
Razon said Pacquiao has been tapped to be the “symbol" of peace and unity because each time he fights communist and Muslim insurgents were drawn away briefly from combat duties to watch the bout.
President Arroyo said she depends on Pacquiao to become an instrument of peace in Mindanao, citing that his “heart, valiance, dignity and love of God and of our country exemplify the indomitable and triumphant Filipino Spirit."
“We are truly proud of Manny as he also champions the Filipino, inspiring the Filipino to dare to dream, and to realize that dream, and win over the challenges that came our way," she said in the Visayan language.
She added that Pacquiao, who has humble beginnings before becoming a multi-millionaire by winning many world titles in boxing, is proof that if one sets his heart in the right direction, choose to serve a higher and nobler purpose, and put God and country before self, then nothing is impossible to achieve..
Arroyo, during the SIP ceremony, assured former rebels that her government is always there to “help," as she branded the insurgency movement as a “misguided rebel movement in our country."
She expressed hope the rebel-returnees would encourage others who remain in the mountains “to give up the way of violence and embrace the path of peace and development."
The President added that the SIP offers former rebels better opportunities. Under the SIP, the former rebels are now referred to as the “Kabalikat sa Reporma" where they and their dependents are provided with means to that would help facilitate their integration into mainstream society to become productive members of their communities.
Assistance package
The immediate assistance includes P20,000 as immediate economic assistance, P50,000 as capital assistance in the form of working animals, farm implements, and/or and sari-sari store goods, among others to help them rebuild their economic and social lives. Those who surrendered their firearms would get additional funds like P50,000 for an M16 or M14 rifle.
Razon said each returnee would also be provided seminar-workshops where they are briefed and acquainted with other program opportunities they can avail of, including livelihood packages, employment, training and education assistance.
He said that to date, 513 former rebels have already given assistance while 291 more are being processed since the SIP was launched 11 months ago. He said a total of 288 firearms have also already been surrendered by former rebels. - GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Pacquiao, in an ambush interview Tuesday in General Santos City, said he would like to try the role of a peace maker and vowed to do everything he can to convince the rebels to lay down their arms.
The boxer, who has initially been named ambassador of peace understanding and later called by President Arroyo as “apostle of peace and understanding," attended the Social Integration Program (SIP) presentation and awarding ceremony to seven former rebels in Phela Grande Convention Center in General Santos.
“Katulad ngayon, masaya tayo dahil may mga ilang kababayang rebels na nagbalik sa pamahalaan, masaya tayo diyan…At nanawagan ako sa lahat na nasa bundok pa pwede na silang bumalik loob sa pamahalaan. Pwede akong kausapin nila at tawagan," he added.
(Right now, I am happy because some of our rebel brothers have returned to the folds of the law…I calling on other rebels to lay down their arms too. They can call me and I will talk to them.)
Talks resumption
Presidential adviser on the peace process Avelino Razon Jr. said the government is looking at the possible resumption of negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) within the next two months.
“We have good news. It seems that both panels, the government panel and the CPP-NPA-NDF, are now ready to return to the negotiating table," Razon said in a briefing in General Santos City.
He said it is now just a matter of continuing the informal meetings to be able to set the agenda and set the date for the formal meeting.
“We are looking at sometime end of June or July makikita natin ito in progress," he added.
Razon, in a text message, said Norway remains the facilitator of the talks between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF and are expected to host the formal talk when it resumes.
Asked if some of the points raised by the CPP-NPA-NDF had already been addressed or resolved, he said it would be discussed when the panels meet.
Symbol of peace
Razon said Pacquiao has been tapped to be the “symbol" of peace and unity because each time he fights communist and Muslim insurgents were drawn away briefly from combat duties to watch the bout.
President Arroyo said she depends on Pacquiao to become an instrument of peace in Mindanao, citing that his “heart, valiance, dignity and love of God and of our country exemplify the indomitable and triumphant Filipino Spirit."
“We are truly proud of Manny as he also champions the Filipino, inspiring the Filipino to dare to dream, and to realize that dream, and win over the challenges that came our way," she said in the Visayan language.
She added that Pacquiao, who has humble beginnings before becoming a multi-millionaire by winning many world titles in boxing, is proof that if one sets his heart in the right direction, choose to serve a higher and nobler purpose, and put God and country before self, then nothing is impossible to achieve..
Arroyo, during the SIP ceremony, assured former rebels that her government is always there to “help," as she branded the insurgency movement as a “misguided rebel movement in our country."
She expressed hope the rebel-returnees would encourage others who remain in the mountains “to give up the way of violence and embrace the path of peace and development."
The President added that the SIP offers former rebels better opportunities. Under the SIP, the former rebels are now referred to as the “Kabalikat sa Reporma" where they and their dependents are provided with means to that would help facilitate their integration into mainstream society to become productive members of their communities.
Assistance package
The immediate assistance includes P20,000 as immediate economic assistance, P50,000 as capital assistance in the form of working animals, farm implements, and/or and sari-sari store goods, among others to help them rebuild their economic and social lives. Those who surrendered their firearms would get additional funds like P50,000 for an M16 or M14 rifle.
Razon said each returnee would also be provided seminar-workshops where they are briefed and acquainted with other program opportunities they can avail of, including livelihood packages, employment, training and education assistance.
He said that to date, 513 former rebels have already given assistance while 291 more are being processed since the SIP was launched 11 months ago. He said a total of 288 firearms have also already been surrendered by former rebels. - GMANews.TV
SOURCE
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Comedy
By Conrado de Quiros
Manny Pacquiao is the face of determination. He’d like nothing better than to fight his next foe. That is, well, whoever he faces for a congressional seat in Sarangani.
His desire to jump to this new weight class, or ring, has been met with much anguish by his admirers, not least in government. They have only one advice for him: Don’t.
“It would be good,” says political adviser Gabriel Claudio, “if he can assess or formulate any plans to join next year’s elections based on what is best not only for the locality he is considering to serve but the entire nation as well.”
“One or two more big fights,” says House Speaker Prospero Nograles, “and running for politics would be ok. Break all the records first.”
“Being a congressman,” says Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño, “is a full time job. He should study even now. He has one year to do that. With his victory, he is now a serious contender as a local official.”
I have a different piece of advice for Pacquiao: By all means do. I disagree with Casiño when he says that with his victory, Pacquiao has become a serious contender for any local position. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that with his victory Pacquiao has become a shoo-in for president.
The fact that he lost before when he ran as congressman doesn’t matter a hoot. It was his mistake to begin with—the same mistake Rudy Fernandez made when he ran for mayor of Quezon City—running for a local position. Had he run for senator, he probably would have won. Local elections are still a matter of logistics, national ones are a matter of popularity. I say probably because Paquiao then wasn’t quite the legend, or Siegfried, or epic hero, he is now.
Wouldn’t it be the richest irony if the same government that has been exploiting his clout with the masa (masses) to contend with their wrath should now have to contend with his ambitions? It’s enough to make everyone believe in God.
The foreign publications that said Pacquiao could become his country’s president one day are wrong only in the “one day.” He could become his country’s president instantly if he wanted to. No one can stop him. Not Noli. Not Erap (former president Joseph Estrada). Not even President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who shows no sign of being resigned to leave anyway. He has become bigger than all of them put together. If Pacquiao decides to become the next president, he will become the next president.
He can become simultaneously president and boxing champion, using as moniker, “The Fighting President.” Or, since he also uses karaoke, “The Fighting/Singing President.”
The only thing, in fact, that can stop him is his suddenly realizing the stupidity of wanting to run. Stupidity because it is a demotion rather than a promotion. He’s already champion of the world, much admired by the world, reveling in hundreds of millions of hard-earned dollars without grappling with the hundreds of millions of headaches stashing ill-gotten loot is heir to. Why on earth would he want to demote himself to ruler of Lilliput, breathing the same air as the pygmies there, waging war on the all-important issue of whether to break an egg on the long side or the short side?
But I have another reason for wanting Pacquiao to run for president other than to make it the hardest thing in the world for Ms Arroyo to stay. That is to show up elections, or indeed politics, in this country. All the advice about Pacquiao needing to prepare, study, appreciate the job of a politician as being full time, weigh the worth of public service versus public spectacle, and have the community’s or the nation’s interest at heart presumes all the others do. It presumes the people giving the advice do. It presumes Claudio and Nograles do. It presumes the congressmen do. (I presume Casiño does.) When in fact all they do is prepare for reelection by flying to Pacquiao’s side each time he fights, study the odds in the various gaming tables in Las Vegas, spend their waking hours plotting ways to separate fools, also called taxpayers, from their money, weigh the differential benefits of token work versus pure PR, and have Arroyo’s—and their own—interests at heart.
It presumes that elections, and politics, in this country are serious business when they are in fact a comedy. It presumes that the bulk at least, if not all, of the candidates for public office, especially the presidency, are serious people, when in fact they are either comedians who have taken themselves seriously with laughable results or undertakers who have become comedians with tear-jerking results.
The advice that prospective candidates should first study and prepare is a familiar one. It’s the advice the trapos (traditional politicians) have been giving the entertainers all this time, particularly when they were threatening to overrun public office. The usual practice was to point to Erap who did exactly that, becoming mayor of San Juan first, then senator, then vice president, before becoming president. Well, all that study and preparation merely taught him how to steal, or how to steal more. Better if he had jumped from movie star to president, maybe his appetites might not have been honed that sharply.
The advice presumes that trapos are better than entertainers, when they are in fact worse. Far far worse. Entertainers turned politicians can only produce bad entertainment; trapos turned mad can only want to stay for good. Pacquiao turned president can only stop being a legend and become “laos” (obsolete); Arroyo turned ruler for life can only stop being a pest and turn into swine flu.
Of course, we can always have a choice beyond an entertainer and a trapo. We can always demand to have a choice beyond an entertainer and a trapo. We can always summon forth, by sheer need and by sheer will, another Cory or Obama.
But right now, that is about as near to being possible as Pacquiao is to becoming Muhammad Ali.
Manny Pacquiao is the face of determination. He’d like nothing better than to fight his next foe. That is, well, whoever he faces for a congressional seat in Sarangani.
His desire to jump to this new weight class, or ring, has been met with much anguish by his admirers, not least in government. They have only one advice for him: Don’t.
“It would be good,” says political adviser Gabriel Claudio, “if he can assess or formulate any plans to join next year’s elections based on what is best not only for the locality he is considering to serve but the entire nation as well.”
“One or two more big fights,” says House Speaker Prospero Nograles, “and running for politics would be ok. Break all the records first.”
“Being a congressman,” says Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño, “is a full time job. He should study even now. He has one year to do that. With his victory, he is now a serious contender as a local official.”
I have a different piece of advice for Pacquiao: By all means do. I disagree with Casiño when he says that with his victory, Pacquiao has become a serious contender for any local position. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that with his victory Pacquiao has become a shoo-in for president.
The fact that he lost before when he ran as congressman doesn’t matter a hoot. It was his mistake to begin with—the same mistake Rudy Fernandez made when he ran for mayor of Quezon City—running for a local position. Had he run for senator, he probably would have won. Local elections are still a matter of logistics, national ones are a matter of popularity. I say probably because Paquiao then wasn’t quite the legend, or Siegfried, or epic hero, he is now.
Wouldn’t it be the richest irony if the same government that has been exploiting his clout with the masa (masses) to contend with their wrath should now have to contend with his ambitions? It’s enough to make everyone believe in God.
The foreign publications that said Pacquiao could become his country’s president one day are wrong only in the “one day.” He could become his country’s president instantly if he wanted to. No one can stop him. Not Noli. Not Erap (former president Joseph Estrada). Not even President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who shows no sign of being resigned to leave anyway. He has become bigger than all of them put together. If Pacquiao decides to become the next president, he will become the next president.
He can become simultaneously president and boxing champion, using as moniker, “The Fighting President.” Or, since he also uses karaoke, “The Fighting/Singing President.”
The only thing, in fact, that can stop him is his suddenly realizing the stupidity of wanting to run. Stupidity because it is a demotion rather than a promotion. He’s already champion of the world, much admired by the world, reveling in hundreds of millions of hard-earned dollars without grappling with the hundreds of millions of headaches stashing ill-gotten loot is heir to. Why on earth would he want to demote himself to ruler of Lilliput, breathing the same air as the pygmies there, waging war on the all-important issue of whether to break an egg on the long side or the short side?
But I have another reason for wanting Pacquiao to run for president other than to make it the hardest thing in the world for Ms Arroyo to stay. That is to show up elections, or indeed politics, in this country. All the advice about Pacquiao needing to prepare, study, appreciate the job of a politician as being full time, weigh the worth of public service versus public spectacle, and have the community’s or the nation’s interest at heart presumes all the others do. It presumes the people giving the advice do. It presumes Claudio and Nograles do. It presumes the congressmen do. (I presume Casiño does.) When in fact all they do is prepare for reelection by flying to Pacquiao’s side each time he fights, study the odds in the various gaming tables in Las Vegas, spend their waking hours plotting ways to separate fools, also called taxpayers, from their money, weigh the differential benefits of token work versus pure PR, and have Arroyo’s—and their own—interests at heart.
It presumes that elections, and politics, in this country are serious business when they are in fact a comedy. It presumes that the bulk at least, if not all, of the candidates for public office, especially the presidency, are serious people, when in fact they are either comedians who have taken themselves seriously with laughable results or undertakers who have become comedians with tear-jerking results.
The advice that prospective candidates should first study and prepare is a familiar one. It’s the advice the trapos (traditional politicians) have been giving the entertainers all this time, particularly when they were threatening to overrun public office. The usual practice was to point to Erap who did exactly that, becoming mayor of San Juan first, then senator, then vice president, before becoming president. Well, all that study and preparation merely taught him how to steal, or how to steal more. Better if he had jumped from movie star to president, maybe his appetites might not have been honed that sharply.
The advice presumes that trapos are better than entertainers, when they are in fact worse. Far far worse. Entertainers turned politicians can only produce bad entertainment; trapos turned mad can only want to stay for good. Pacquiao turned president can only stop being a legend and become “laos” (obsolete); Arroyo turned ruler for life can only stop being a pest and turn into swine flu.
Of course, we can always have a choice beyond an entertainer and a trapo. We can always demand to have a choice beyond an entertainer and a trapo. We can always summon forth, by sheer need and by sheer will, another Cory or Obama.
But right now, that is about as near to being possible as Pacquiao is to becoming Muhammad Ali.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Pacquiao envoy ‘for peace, understanding’
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has named boxing hero Manny Pacquiao "ambassador for peace and understanding," as she rolled out a grand welcome for the champion at the Palace on Monday.
Wearing a red, white, and blue "Team Pacquiao" sports jacket over a red pant suit, Arroyo told Pacquiao: "Congratulations mula sa isang nagpapasalamat na bansang Pilipinas [Congratulations from a grateful Filipino nation]."
Arroyo said she was naming Pacquiao "sugo ng kapayapaan at pagkakaunawaan [ambassador for peace and understanding]."
Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said that with Pacquiao's appointment, he would help promote peace in the coming 2010 elections.
Red, white, and blue confetti rained on the Palace lawn as Pacquiao arrived, saluted by the Presidential Security Group.
Pacquiao was led to the State Dining Room where Arroyo presented him with a fondant cake in the shape of a championship belt.
He proceeded to the Rizal Hall where Arroyo hosted a luncheon for him.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita read a proclamation declaring Monday as a national day of celebration.
Palace chefs prepared a spread of Filipino fare – tinolang manok, grilled fish over kare-kare vegetables, tiger prawns with garlic and shrimp roe, chicken adobo, pancit malabon, green mangoes with bagoong, and a choice between steamed rice and bagoong rice. Buko salad with lychees and pandan jelly was served for dessert.
A trio of classical singers belted Pacquiao's songs "Para sa 'Yo" and "Lahing Pinoy."
In a brief chat, Arroyo asked Pacquiao about his May 2 fight against Hatton – whether he was hurt and how he felt when Hatton was knocked out in the second round.
Pacquiao said he pitied Hatton as he laid on the canvass.
Pacquiao said the British fighter "underestimated the punches of the Filipino people," eliciting applause from the audience,
"Naawa din ako kay Hatton [I also pitied Hatton]," Pacquiao said.
The President also asked about Pacquiao's mother Dionesia, who has turned into a celebrity in her own right.
Pacquiao said his mother was in their hometown of General Santos, with wife, Jinkee.
Source
Pacquiao is DoJ chief's 'intelligence' aide
MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said he has tapped boxing champion Manny Pacquiao as his “special assistant” on “intelligence matters.”
Gonzalez said Pacquiao’s position was “honorary” and that the ring idol would not receive compensation.
"No salary. It is an honorary position in honor of his achievement. He can help the Department of Justice in any manner he can, I can ask him for information as well," Gonzalez said in a phone interview on Monday.
Earlier Monday, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she appointed Pacquiao as “ambassador for peace and understanding.”
As justice secretary Gonzalez said had the authority to appoint confidential agents, therefore, Pacquiao's appointment was within his powers.
Gonzalez said Pacquiao was also recently appointed as head of the environment department’s Task Force Kalikasan (Nature).
"There is nothing wrong with that," the justice chief said.
Source
Well, Manny can have as many honorary government positions these campaign-fund-begging-idiots give as long as he will not play their games.
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has named boxing hero Manny Pacquiao "ambassador for peace and understanding," as she rolled out a grand welcome for the champion at the Palace on Monday.
Wearing a red, white, and blue "Team Pacquiao" sports jacket over a red pant suit, Arroyo told Pacquiao: "Congratulations mula sa isang nagpapasalamat na bansang Pilipinas [Congratulations from a grateful Filipino nation]."
Arroyo said she was naming Pacquiao "sugo ng kapayapaan at pagkakaunawaan [ambassador for peace and understanding]."
Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said that with Pacquiao's appointment, he would help promote peace in the coming 2010 elections.
Red, white, and blue confetti rained on the Palace lawn as Pacquiao arrived, saluted by the Presidential Security Group.
Pacquiao was led to the State Dining Room where Arroyo presented him with a fondant cake in the shape of a championship belt.
He proceeded to the Rizal Hall where Arroyo hosted a luncheon for him.
Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita read a proclamation declaring Monday as a national day of celebration.
Palace chefs prepared a spread of Filipino fare – tinolang manok, grilled fish over kare-kare vegetables, tiger prawns with garlic and shrimp roe, chicken adobo, pancit malabon, green mangoes with bagoong, and a choice between steamed rice and bagoong rice. Buko salad with lychees and pandan jelly was served for dessert.
A trio of classical singers belted Pacquiao's songs "Para sa 'Yo" and "Lahing Pinoy."
In a brief chat, Arroyo asked Pacquiao about his May 2 fight against Hatton – whether he was hurt and how he felt when Hatton was knocked out in the second round.
Pacquiao said he pitied Hatton as he laid on the canvass.
Pacquiao said the British fighter "underestimated the punches of the Filipino people," eliciting applause from the audience,
"Naawa din ako kay Hatton [I also pitied Hatton]," Pacquiao said.
The President also asked about Pacquiao's mother Dionesia, who has turned into a celebrity in her own right.
Pacquiao said his mother was in their hometown of General Santos, with wife, Jinkee.
Source
Pacquiao is DoJ chief's 'intelligence' aide
MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said he has tapped boxing champion Manny Pacquiao as his “special assistant” on “intelligence matters.”
Gonzalez said Pacquiao’s position was “honorary” and that the ring idol would not receive compensation.
"No salary. It is an honorary position in honor of his achievement. He can help the Department of Justice in any manner he can, I can ask him for information as well," Gonzalez said in a phone interview on Monday.
Earlier Monday, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she appointed Pacquiao as “ambassador for peace and understanding.”
As justice secretary Gonzalez said had the authority to appoint confidential agents, therefore, Pacquiao's appointment was within his powers.
Gonzalez said Pacquiao was also recently appointed as head of the environment department’s Task Force Kalikasan (Nature).
"There is nothing wrong with that," the justice chief said.
Source
Well, Manny can have as many honorary government positions these campaign-fund-begging-idiots give as long as he will not play their games.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Pacquiao arrives at Palace, receives Proclamation 1764
By Dino Maragay
MANILA, Philippines – Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has arrived at the Malacañang Palace and formally received Proclamation 1764 — which declares this day, May 11, as a national day of celebration — from President Arroyo herself.
According to reports, the pound-for-pound king was welcomed by Mrs. Arroyo and First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo — who both sported jackets handed to them as a personal gift by Pacquiao himself.
Several cabinet officials, led by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, were also present at the Palace.
As of this posting, Pacquiao is having a conversation with the President regarding his triumph over Ricky Hatton last May 3.
Reports added that the General Santos City-based southpaw has just received a special cake baked by Palace chefs, something the boxer regularly gets whenever he visits Malacañang after each fight. The cake reportedly flashed the words "Pound-for-Pound King," and featured a championship belt and a boxing glove design.
Pacquiao and his entourage started a motorcade early this morning, passing through several key thoroughfares in Manila.
Source
There you go, Manny just visited the swamp occupied by two of the country's giant crocs! Dont get outsmarted Manny!
MANILA, Philippines – Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has arrived at the Malacañang Palace and formally received Proclamation 1764 — which declares this day, May 11, as a national day of celebration — from President Arroyo herself.
According to reports, the pound-for-pound king was welcomed by Mrs. Arroyo and First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo — who both sported jackets handed to them as a personal gift by Pacquiao himself.
Several cabinet officials, led by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, were also present at the Palace.
As of this posting, Pacquiao is having a conversation with the President regarding his triumph over Ricky Hatton last May 3.
Reports added that the General Santos City-based southpaw has just received a special cake baked by Palace chefs, something the boxer regularly gets whenever he visits Malacañang after each fight. The cake reportedly flashed the words "Pound-for-Pound King," and featured a championship belt and a boxing glove design.
Pacquiao and his entourage started a motorcade early this morning, passing through several key thoroughfares in Manila.
Source
There you go, Manny just visited the swamp occupied by two of the country's giant crocs! Dont get outsmarted Manny!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Pacquiao plans his future in politics
CNN) -- New IBO light-welterweight world champion, Manny Pacquiao, is planning a career in politics, the 30-year-old told CNN on his return to his native Phillipines.
Philippine boxing champ Manny Pacquiao sits with Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Lito Atienza (L) and former governor Chavit Singson (R) in Manila.
Though "Pacman" will concentrate on boxing until next year, the man dubbed the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world suggested he could retire the following year to run for congress.
"I want to be a Congressman so I can help the people," Pacquiao told CNN's Andrew Stevens.
But when asked if becoming the Filipino president was his ultimate aim he added: "I wouldn't think about that because my ambition is only to run for congress.
Pacquiao previously ran in the 2007 congressional elections for President Arroyo's party but was beaten by the Nationalist People's Coalition candidate Darlene Antonino-Custodio, who received 139,061 votes to Pacquiao's 75,908, Britain's Daily Telegraph said.
Pacquiao is a national hero in the Phillipines but has seen his popularity grow around the world since his comprehensive victory ver British fighter Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas.
"I'm happy to be back (in Manila) because there's a lot of people supporting me here. I expected it in the Phillipines but I had many supporting me in America too."
The man dubbed the "National Fist" will be a busy man over the next few months as he plans to make his second film and record a TV programme.
This is a long way from his humble origins growing up in General Santos City, southern Philippines, a reality that Pacquiao says he struggles to believe sometimes.
"I never dreamed I would reach the levels of success I have reached, he said. "But I have faith in God and discipline in myself to make the sacrifices (needed) and to train hard."
In 14 years as a professional, Pacquiao has won world titles in four weight divisions -- from 7st 8lb to 9st 9lb, at flyweight, super bantamweight, super featherweight and lightweight. In his last contest, in December, in what many felt would be a step too far, he dismantled America's most popular boxer, Oscar De La Hoya, at the 10st 7lb limit, in eight one-sided rounds.
Pacquiao is currently rated by The Ring, the sport's most respected trade magazine, as the best boxer in the world. His career earnings stand at an estimated £30 million, with major paydays coming relatively late in his career.
However he remains modest despite the success. "It's a big honour to me and my family to be looked up to by so many people.
"My inspiration comes from my family -- the people who are always there behind me supporting me and love me."
Pacquiao basks in popularity, ponders politics
By Paul Alexander, Associated Press Writer MANILA, Philippines — Nothing seems capable of stopping Manny Pacquiao these days, not even the threat of a typhoon or swine flu, as he rides a wave of popularity that swells with each dominating victory. Bigger fighters? No problem -- a few more pounds (kilos) of muscle have added even more power to the quickest hands in boxing. Just ask Britain's Ricky Hatton, who was knocked down twice before being knocked out just before the end of the second round of their junior welterweight title fight last weekend. Nearly a week later, Pacquiao still dominates the headlines and airwaves in the Philippines, where he's an instantly recognizable icon, one of those stars who transcends sport. In a country that has grappled with deep financial problems and political divisions for years, Pacquiao has created a fanatical following that bridges the divide between rich and poor. The sprawling archipelago of more than 7,100 islands grinds to a halt when he fights. Crime drops, and traffic slows to a trickle. Even communist and Muslim insurgencies take a break. Spokesman Eid Kabalu said many members of the 11,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the largest Muslim guerrilla group in the volatile south, trooped back to their communities to watch the Hatton bout. While ecstatic over the result, the rebels had one complaint: Pacquiao ended the fun too quickly. Theaters showing the fight live were packed, and the delayed broadcast on national TV drew two-thirds of the viewership in Manila, a sprawling city of 12 million. Pacquiao's popularity is spreading overseas, too. Early estimates suggest the Hatton bout exceeded expectations and drew the fourth-largest pay-per-view audience ever. The story of his rise from a poverty-wracked childhood as a street vendor to the man widely regarded as the world's best pound-for-pound boxer is serving as inspiration to every down-on-their-luck Filipino, not to mention fostering dreams among a whole new generation. Now the question is where his next fight will take place -- another huge payday in the boxing ring, where a possible matchup with recently unretired Floyd Mayweather Jr. is being touted; or in the political arena, where Pacquiao is eyeing another candidacy for Congress with suggestions he could run for president. He already ranks as perhaps the most popular Philippines athlete ever, swarmed everywhere he goes. Local radio has been playing a patriotic Pacquiao song entitled "Filipino Race," in which he professes his deep love and pride for his country and people. An MTV version has been posted on YouTube, showing the boxing star strumming a guitar and singing with his countrymen in front of a huge Philippines flag along with a montage of him demolishing opponents. His singing isn't likely to result in a music career, but the song could easily be turned into a political battlecry. Pacquiao returned from the U.S. early Friday, brushing off the approach of a typhoon and suggestions from the Philippines health minister that his entourage should self-quarantine for a few days to make sure none of them was carrying swine flu from Los Angeles. Authorities at Manila's international airport tried to set up a cordon to keep Pacquiao and his entourage at a distance, but well-wishers and reporters broke through to get close to him. After breakfast, Pacquiao and friends repeated their tradition of going to Manila's Quiapo church, where hundreds of fans jostled each other to try to get a glimpse of him. He shook hands with the crowd inside the church. His victory parade was postponed to next week, although the typhoon arrived early and largely missed the capital. But Pacquiao also got a taste of his own medicine -- and what lies ahead in politics. Pacquiao has been borrowing a line from the Spiderman movies that "With great power comes great responsibility," and some radio commentators took swipes at him for ignoring the swine flu advice. One said he missed the rare chance to show responsibility and likened him to other powerful people who only want to get their way. "The situation would be worse if I stayed longer in the U.S., because there are a lot of fans visiting my place, taking pictures and asking for autographs," Pacquiao said. "My team and I would be more vulnerable to catching the flu." Pacquiao has petitioned for accreditation of his People's Champ Movement as a political party in what's expected to be another run for Congress in 2010; he fell short the first time, but that was before high-profile victories over Oscar De La Hoya and Hatton. Some suggest a political career could harm the boxer's legacy. Photos of him dancing with two young women have been circulating and could be used to undercut his relatively wholesome image. Then there are the accusations that only come with being in office. "Today he is admired," commentator Neal H. Cruz wrote in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. "But when he becomes a congressman, people will curse him and call him 'thief,' 'liar' and 'corrupt."' http://www.usatoday.com/sports/boxing/2009-05-08-1822265087_x.htm |
Call of an Unknown Fan
Manny Pacquiao in his media interviews upon his arrival in the Philippines, refused to talk about politics yet. But just recently COMELEC accredits his People's Champ Movement as a local political party, thus, speculations that Manny indeed is joining politics again bloated.
This blog will be dedicated to save my dear hero, Manny Pacquiao, from the Philippine's rotten political system simply on my core belief that POLITICS WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING MANNY PACQUIAO HAS.
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