Pacquiao eyed for Metro congressman
A MALACAŅANG official said People's Champ Manny Pacquiao is being eyed for a congressional seat in Metro Manila in 2010.
This despite the advice of some close allies of the Filipino boxing icon to focus at the moment on his boxing career instead of politics and the forthcoming elections which is still more than a year away.
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"In Congress, he (Pacquiao) is being eyed to run for a congressional seat representing one of the areas of the National Capital Region (NCR) comes 2010," deputy presidential spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said in a text message.
Her statement was made at the heels of report that Quezon City second district Representative Mary Ann Susano of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, whose on her third and final term, is already talking to Pacquiao to be her possible successor.
Another report, however, said Pacquiao is also being considered for an elective position in the local government of Quezon City.
Asked if there are already talks between Pacquiao and the administration party, Fajardo said: "Manny has not made any announcements as of this time and the Palace has not made any official endorsement."
She, however, said Pacquiao has a good heart that he would "undoubtedly make a good public servant."
Environment Secretary Jose Atienza Jr., a known supporter of Pacquiao, agreed, adding that he can't blame the groups, politicians or even political parties that want Pacquiao to run.
But Atienza said they have not yet discussed politics before or after the "Dream Match" between Pacquiao and Oscar De La Hoya.
He said 2010 is still more than a year away and simply "let 2010 handle itself."
Press Secretary Jesus Dureza said running anew for an elective position is a personal decision that should be left to Pacquiao to decide.
Dureza said whatever decision he makes, it would not in any way diminish the act that he is a "national hero for showing the true grit of the Filipino fighter."
He said Pacquiao would be accorded the usual hero's welcome when he arrives in Malacaņang at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday for a courtesy call to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
According to Fajardo, the official title of "Ambassador of Peace" would also be conferred in an "appropriate ceremony" as the Senate is now preparing a resolution to honor Pacquiao also as a "boxing sports hero."
She said Pacquiao deserves these honors as he is loved by every Filipino for his courage and generous spirit, and is considered a champion both inside and outside the ring.
"He has served as a diplomat and an advocate of the Philippines, winning international acclaim and admiration for our country. It is only fitting that this important role and honor be given to him," she said.
Pacquiao, upon arrival, would proceed to a hotel to rest before hearing mass at the Quiapo Church. He would later proceed to Malacaņang for a courtesy call to Arroyo.
It would be followed by a "series of meetings" including with Vice President Noli de Castro.
A "victory parade" for the boxer would be done in parts of Metro Manila as well as in General Santos City. The motorcade would pass by the cities of Manila, Pasay and Makati, and culminate at SM Mall of Asia. (JMR/Sunnex)
For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Bacolod.
(December 10, 2008 issue)
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http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/pac...ro-congressman
malipay kaha mo makabasa ani? mao ng d na ko mo side ni pacman every fight
Pacquiao eyed for Metro congressman
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