Pacquiao is not the solution
Pacquiao’s perspectives appear to fall short of the political insights and depth needed to tackle diverse and intricate issues such as poverty alleviation.
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Pacquiao’s perspectives appear to fall short of the political insights and depth needed to tackle diverse and intricate issues such as poverty alleviation.
Few Filipinos evoke as much respect and emotion as Manny Pacquiao. The boxing legend’s story of rising from humble beginnings to global fame is truly inspiring. This time Pacquiao has returned to public service as a Cabinet Secretary and lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission.
Being a world-class athlete, however, does not automatically equate to political skill. Governance requires extensive knowledge of policy and economics, for which charisma and popularity cannot substitute.
Pacquiao’s power in the boxing ring does not necessarily translate into the skills and expertise needed to address complex issues like poverty alleviation. His substandard legislative record as a congressman and a senator and his lack of administrative experience have been disappointing to say the least.
But I admire Pacquiao’s generosity in using his own money to help the poor. People call it a dole but it does not matter. It’s his own money. He struck me as boyish and modest when I first encountered him many years ago, when we sat at the same table at the Bureau of Internal Revenue. He was there to settle his tax deficiency while I, as a young reporter, was covering it.
Later as a congressman representing Sarangani, he gladly signed our photo at the House of Representatives.
Pacquiao’s perspectives appear to fall short of the political insights and depth needed to tackle diverse and intricate issues such as poverty alleviation. His political history, marked by frequent role changes and shifting positions, and his past criticism of the President suggest inconsistent political beliefs.
During the 2022 presidential campaign, Pacquiao urged the Marcos family to return any ill-gotten wealth and apologize for the martial law abuses. He also criticized Marcos Jr. during the campaign calling for accountability for his father’s administration.
Now, suddenly, Pacquiao is convinced of the President’s leadership qualities and accomplishments.
Filipinos gave Pacquiao a chance to prove his worth as a public servant when they elected him twice. Those close to him went further, however, convincing him he would make a good president, so he ran for the top post but lost.
He tried to secure a second Senate term but lost again. Does he plan to run for public office again in 2028 under the outgoing administration’s coalition, and does that make it necessary to stay relevant in politics?
Previous administrations struggled to accomplish what Pacquiao aims to achieve in this administration’s remaining 15 months. This administration is just resorting to star power to address a serious problem that it cannot effectively solve.
Pacquiao, the boxer, has made us proud and inspired us in many ways. It would be a tragedy for such a legendary sports figure to be exploited again and placed in a position that could result in missed opportunities for genuine change and solutions.
Public service must always prioritize the common good over personal glory. It should reflect a deeper and altruistic purpose.
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