Pacquiao fit to run for Congress - Palace

Malacañang on Wednesday dismissed doubts over Manny Pacquiao’s qualifications to run for a congressional seat, saying the Filipino boxing champion could do something to serve the people. Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said he believes that Pacquiao would be able to enact laws and do the job of a congressman if the latter is elected. “Sa palagay ko naman, si Manny Pacquiao ay hindi nakaisip sumali sa pulitika kung wala siyang isinasaisip kung ano kaya ang dapat niyang maitulong sa kabutihan ng ating buhay pag siya ay nahalal bilang congressman (I think Manny Pacquiao gave much thought about entering politics and had concrete plans for the people if he gets elected)," he said. Ermita’s comment was in reaction to poll Chairman Benjamin Abalos’ advice to Pacquiao to forget politics and concentrate on boxing instead. “He (Abalos) cannot stop anybody from running for public office," Ermita said. Ermita said there were candidates in the past who happened to be underdogs and yet had proven themselves worthy of being elected. Pacquiao has set his eyes on politics, hoping to cash in on his popularity when he runs for a House of Representatives seat in May. "Perhaps I can become a bridge that would bring my district closer to the national government," the 27-year-old WBC international super featherweight champion was quoted as saying Wednesday. Pacquiao, a former baker and construction worker, said he would seek the seat of his South Cotabato province, running under the pro-administration wing of the Liberal Party in the May 14 congressional polls. "Some candidates may be smart but have accomplished nothing. What the people need is not their intelligence but their service to the poor," Pacquiao said. But he is not giving up boxing just yet. "I can devote time to both my boxing career and my service to the people," Pacquiao said. An opposition lawmaker didn't think it was a good idea. "This is the wrong ring for him. Politics is a different battle. There are no gloves," Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez said.- GMANews.TV