Pacquiao 'advised' anew to skip politics

Although he insists that he carefully studied the matter, Filipino boxing idol Manny Pacquiao got more unsolicited advice Wednesday from sports and political analysts to think twice about entering the political arena. Veteran sportscaster Ed Picson said Pacquiao should focus on his boxing career instead of seeking the congressional seat in the first district of South Cotabato. "Right now Manny's career is on the rise ... Right now he is at the peak of his strength. It will be unfortunate if it goes to waste," Picson said in Filipino during an interview with GMA News. He noted that even the brightest boxing stars fade, in an profession which can end before the final bell. "But in politics, even until the very end [when you're old], you can still be fit there," Picson said. Pacquiao is fresh from his three-round conquest of Mexican boxing legend Erik "El Terible" Morales last November 18 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The "people's champ" earlier said he plans to prepare for his next bout against Mexican Jorge Solis on April 21, then campaign during the remaining days en route to the May 14 polls. Solis is an undefeated puncher, whom Pacquiao's coach Freddie Roach previously said should not be taken lightly. The Ring Magazine, regarded as "the Bible of Boxing," currently lists Pacquiao as the best junior lightweight boxer with a 42-3-2 card. Of his wins, 34 came by way of knockout. Despite the impressive record, Picson said Pacquiao should keep his eye on dispensing the toughest opponents, namely Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez. Meanwhile, professor Randolf "Randy" David of the University of the Philippines (UP) warned Pacquiao against entering the May polls because the latter lacked expertise in governance. David told dzBB radio that Pacquiao was being used by desperate politicians for their own selfish interests. David, a staunch critic of the administration, called Pacquiao a victim of "proxy politics," dzBB radio said, as the boxer would be employed as crowd draw in political sorties. Pacquiao will run against Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio, who is seeking her third term in the House of Representatives. - GMANews.TV