Manny Pacquiao to quit boxing if elected as senator

The Commission on Elections has set the date of filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC) from October 12 to 16, 2015.

Pacquiao is being lured by major political parties to join their senatorial line up consisting of 12 candidates who intend to join 12 other incumbent senators in the 24- member Philippine Senate.“I’m still thinking about it (running for senator) because once I am elected as senator I have to give up everything, including boxing, and focus on my job as lawmaker,” said Pacquiao who is one of the possible candidates with a fair  chance of winning based on recent survey.

Like other candidates, Pacquiao has been moving around the country to get the pulse of the electorate about issues that will be discussed during the campaign.

While in Davao, Pacquiao visited his friend Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and he said he got the Mayor’s support if he decides to run for senator.

“I was touched by his (Duterte’s) kindness and words of encouragement. He promised to campaign for me all over Mindanao if ever I decide to run for senator,” Pacquaio said, adding that the mayor thinks Mindanao needs someone like him to be in the Senate.

Pacquiao has entertained the idea of running for a higher public office and a senate seat could serve as a pathway to his long term political plan.

“When I started boxing, of course I was planning, you know and thinking about getting to become a  champion. So when I enter politics, its the same thing,” he said.

“But, you know, it’s far away,” he said. “It’s God’s will,” Pacquiao added.

Pacquiao, who is still recuperating from his shoulder injury, has announced his plan to return to the ring early next year. (L. Reyes, philboxing)