Pacquiao lashes out at political detractors, pols

Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday lashed out against his detractors as he announced that he is now ready for another fight, this time for the congressional seat of South Cotabato which he said has been lagging in terms of development. In a press conference held shortly after his arrival, Pacquiao also lashed out at politicians who do not fulfill their promises and the lack of development in his hometown. “Yung mga taong ayaw akong pumasok sa pulitika, sana magkapalit na lang kami ng puso…Heto ang nararamdaman ko eh… ang tumulong sa mahihirap," he said when asked to react to comments against him entering politics. Asked how he intends to work as a congressman if he wins, Pacquiao said that lawmakers usually have staffs working for them and congressmen can always direct their lawyers and secretaries to craft laws. What is important, Pacquiao said during the press briefing aired on national television, was that a congressman should have good intentions. Pacquiao pointed out that in 20 years, General Santos has not seen any type of development, adding that the only new structure in the place was his mansion. He added that the airport in his hometown remains a small strip and that the hospital is still a small operation. If elected, he vowed to make the airport an international one and the hospital a national hospital. “Kung nagsisikap ang lider mo, dapat malayo na rin ang narrating (ng bayan mo),"he said. Pacquiao is running against incumbent South Cotabato Rep. Darlene Custodio, one of the main proponents of the impeachment bid against President Arroyo. Custodio had earlier hailed Pacquiao’s win over Mexican boxer Jorge Solis on Sunday. On Tuesday, Pacquiao thanked her for her support adding that he would also support her if she wins the congressional seat. “Dapat sport lang… Irespeto natin ang panalo ng tao," he said. – GMANews.TV