Pacquiao should stick to boxing, businessmen say

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao, the world’s top boxer, will best serve the Philippines “by staying on his pedestal," business leaders told GMANews.TV. This was the general sentiment expressed by leaders belonging to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). If it is going to be a local political party as announced by Pacquiao, it would boost the local economy of Sarangani during election time, PCCI President Edgardo G. Lacson said. “If Pacquiao as a congressman sponsors enlightened measures then his party will contribute to the national economy," Lacson said. “If he wins as a local official and he governs well, then the success of Sarangani will definitely be a contribution to the collective economic development of the country. But Pacquiao may best serve the country by staying on his pedestal. Be a hero, an icon, a model," he added. In December, Pacquiao sought the Commission on Elections’ recognition for his political party, People’s Champ Movement, a move seen to prepare his electoral bid in the lone district of Saranggani. For his part, PCCI Vice Chairman Samie Lim said that Pacquiao “can be an agent of change for his community…if he sticks to local politics." Pacquiao can also “inspire his constituency to strive for a better future," Lim said. “I hope he is given the right advice by the people around him," Lim said. “I am for him if he puts in as much effort in being a good politician as he does to become a better boxer," Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (Finex) Foundation chairman Eduardo Francisco said. Antonio B. Herbosa, PNB Capital & Investment Corp. President and Chief Executive Officer, said Pacquiao may be a "major force" someday. "If he gets good people, not traditional politicians (trapos), he may be a future kingmaker. Year 2010 may be a major move by the people away from trapos. He may be a Freddie Roach in politics," he said. - GMANews.TV