Pacquiao ponders politics as future option
By NICK GIONGCO

MANNY PACQUIAO is still undecided whether to run as vice-mayor of Manila next year, but there were signs that he is weighing his options one of them a political career after boxing.

In a radio interview, Pacquiao, who is being eyed to be the running mate of mayoralty candidate Arnold "Ali" Atienza, son of incumbent Manila mayor Lito Atienza, said his intentions of seeking public office was not influenced by anyone.

"Hindi ako kinumbinse. (I was not forced)," said Pacquiao. "Ako ang nagdesisyon sa sarili ko. (I decided on my own)."

Pacquiao said his loved ones have even expressed full backing to whatever he is going to get his hands into.

"Kung ano ang hakbang ko, susuportahan ako ng aking pamilya (My family supports me in everything that I do)," said the 27-year-old Pacquiao, whose decision to transfer his residency to Manila from General Santos last month fueled speculations that the Atienzas, his long-time backers, may have influenced him to join the political arena.

"Wala pang final ‘yan (I haven’t decided on that)," said Pacquiao, who is set to battle Erik Morales for the third time on Nov. 18 in Las Vegas.

Still, there were indications that he is on his way to City Hall next year when the former world flyweight and superbantamweight king told his interviewers about his desire to lend a hand to the people of Manila.

"Asahan nila ang aking serbisyo di lamang sa ibabaw ng ring kundi maging sa bayan (I can assure the people that I am willing to provide service not only in the ring but outside)," said Pacquiao, who even hinted of retirement after two more fights, including the rubber match with Morales.

Pacquiao arrived yesterday from GenSan and proceeded immediately to ABS-CBN headquarters before working out at a Cubao recording studio for a rehearsal.

Atienza also dismissed reports that he has been handpicked to replace his father, who is no longer eligible to run and is eyeing a senatorial seat.

"No comment," the young Atienza said yesterday afternoon.

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