Filipina Soul

Manny Pacquiao has a big fight this coming December. He will face no other than his boyhood idol Oscar de la Hoya at the MGM Grand Hotel on December 6, 2008.

After that fight, Manny says that he will have two more, and then retire in 2009.

Having made millions of dollars already, Manny is sure to earn millions more in the fight against de la Hoya. Quite enough to retire on, I would say. After almost a decade of fighting in the international boxing arena, Manny’s name is already etched in history. He has four world championship belts and is currently hailed as the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

Fame and fortune are already his; what more could he ask for? His mother is said to have been advising him to retire for a while now. I think he’s wise to do so while his body and mind are still unaffected by the punishing blows he receives in the ring. Then he can really enjoy the fruits of his labor.

So what’s next after retirement?

Manny hasn’t ruled out politics. He has tried it before, and lost his bid for a seat representing the first district of  South Cotabato. He has refused to comment when asked about a possible re-entry into the world of politics.

I’ve already made known how I feel about Manny going into politics. It’s been more than a year, and that hasn’t changed. Even if the time comes when Manny no longer has to juggle boxing and politics, I still feel that he should leave politics to the politicians.

Manny can do so much more for the country without going into that field. Here’s a short list for starters:

* speaking engagements at schools to inspire and encourage

* setting up a foundation for underprivileged students

* sponsoring and appearing at physical fitness events all over the country

* building gyms in cities outside Manila

He can use his fame and fortune to serve his countrymen on the ground, instead of from an isolated political tower.

But this is a long way off.

First, there’s de la Hoya to face. Manny has to beat him to ensure a truly golden retirement for himself.

image used with permission from Newscom

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