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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 19: Manny Pacquiao in the ring during the WBA welterweight championship against Adrien Broner at MGM Grand Garden Arena on January 19, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JANUARY 19: Manny Pacquiao in the ring during the WBA welterweight championship against Adrien Broner at MGM Grand Garden Arena on January 19, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Manny Pacquiao may be in the news often for rumored bouts with the likes of Conor McGregor, but he has an entirely different responsibility in his home country of the Philippines. While Pacquiao is yet to call it quits on his boxing career, his political career is thriving. People have wondered if Pacquiao could make a push to become the President of the country. However, now the signs are pointing towards that.
Pacquiao was elected the President of the ruling PDP-Lanban party. This is the party of President Rodrigo Duterte. ‘Pac-Man’ issued a statement from Manila after his election.
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Pacquiao was just named President of PDP-LABAN, PRRD's party. He's rumored to be eyeing the Top Post in 2022.
YES. May puso si Manny.
But Malacañang needs more than just a good heart—it also needs a brilliant, open mind.
PHILANTHROPY FOR PACQUIAO? YES.
PRESIDENCY? 'DI PUWEDE.
— Francis Baraan IV (@MrFrankBaraan) December 3, 2020
“Fair but firm – this is the kind of leadership that you can expect from Manny Pacquiao, PDP-Laban Party president. To be given this rare opportunity to lead the PDP-Laban is an immense honor and responsibility. By God’s grace, I will not waste this platform that you have entrusted me with.”
Manny Pacquiao has served as a state senator since 2016 but has had a low attendance rate. This is definitely a result of him still being a world champion. Duterte has praised Pacquiao’s ideals before. Manny is considered the future with innovative and new ideas.
Manny Pacquiao: How does politics affect boxing?
Pacquiao will probably not be an active boxer if his political ambitions strengthen. Considering the election he is eyeing is in 2022, his boxing career should conventionally be over by then. However, he has still looked like one of the best boxers in the world. But, as a political leader, the only boxer to hold titles in eight weight classes will have to sacrifice fighting at the pro level.
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 20: Manny Pacquiao blows a kiss to the crowd as he celebrates his split-decision victory over Keith Thurman in their WBA welterweight title fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena on July 20, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Considering his big jump and an expected increase in political responsibility, the slowing down of his career may happen instantaneously. He will probably speak more about the political issues in the Philippines more than fantasy bookings against Conor McGregor or Jorge Masvidal.
Hopefully, we do not see an abrupt end to Pacquiao’s career inside the ring. He achieved status in the eyes of his home country, by being one of the best boxers alive. But, maybe the gloves need to be kept away now.
