Pacquiao's next foe, who will it be?

Now that the political elections game is almost over, it will be interesting to know who will Pacquiao's next ring opponent be. Is it Joan Guzman, Edwin Valero, Marco Antonio Barrera, Humberto Soto, or Juan Manuel Marquez? Of course, not to forget Joel Casamayor. All of these possible contenders have impressive profile.

As Pacquiao captured the hearts of boxing enthusiasts around the world, his next fight is already a guaranteed bestseller as he is now being regarded as the best pound for pound best boxer in the world.

News is out that Manny Pacquiao lost to Darlene Custodio for the Congressional Seat of General Santos City, Philippines. However, all is not lost. Strategically, Pacquiao was able to grant everyone their request and let the public decided on this fate.

For the politicians who kept pressuring Pacquiao to fight, he allowed himself to be used seeing that he may indeed help his fellowmen.

For the people who wanted him to be their representative, he gave them to chance to vote for him.

For the people who believe that he should just focus on boxing and continue his charity pursuits without any political technicalities or intrigues surrounding it, the people were able to send the message clear that they don't want him to be used for politics, at least for now.

From a lessons learned aspect, this experience have given the PacMan a glimpse on how dirty politics is and the people you supposedly trust will be the ones to betray you. May this make the Pacquiao wiser in the years to come.

Perhaps when the PacMan retires, then by all means, pursue politics as it is every right (and even obligation if they are able?) of a Filipino to serve his countrymen.

Dirty and light side of Pacquiao as politician

AS the political campaign season has begun, critics are now questioning Manny Pacquiao's capability, intellectually, to rightly so serve Filipinos in Congress. His opponent, Darlene Antonino Custodio, believes that the present administration camp pressured Pacquaio to run for Congress.

On the lighter side, it is a great to see an old friend, Reynold Lagrimas Garcia or more known as Pooh on stage, hugging the limelight as "Manny Poohcquiao". His impersonation of Manny Pacquiao can be watched on YouTube.

Pacquiao gets ready for political campaign

Pacquiao just returned to the Philippines after prevailing on his US$4 million dollar match against Jorge Solis. As all of his victories are celebrated through a parade and hero-like welcome, the COMELEC already ruled out accusation that such is for poll exposure. Only when he solicits for votes can it treated as one.

A similar parade was also organized by General Santos Mayor Pedro Acharon Jr. who has always been supportive of Pacquiao.

Being a champion sets a lot of expectations from people. For instance, this columnist is hitting on Pacquiao for not being able to say anything on the death of another Filipino boxer - Lito Sisnorios. I find this to be pathetic especially when get to see old time boxers lining up to visit Pacquiao asking for money so they can start a business or build houses. Is that his obligation or that of the government (particularly the sports authority)? I think it is ok to ask for his support or be vocal about it but definitely not to blame him if he didn't say anything or sent a person to that effect. It sounds like that boxer's death is Pacquiao's accountability.

Although Pacquiao won the fight, there's much criticism as to his lack of game plan on the earlier rounds. It is also funny how defeated Jorge Solis claimed that Pacquiao's punch is no stronger than of his wife. (unless of course he is implying to be a battered husband) As in the past, Pacquiao remained humble and graceful in accepting victory for thanking the people in supporting their fight without saying anything further about his defeated opponent.

After the elections, it remains to be seen whether he will still have time for boxing. As early as now, there are boxers wanting to be picked for his next match for both money and glory.