Poll lawyer: Pacquiao doesn’t need bouts for Senate seat

MANILA, Philippines – An election lawyer dispelled claims made by some quarters that boxing icon Manny Pacquiao needs to continue fighting to fund his Senate campaign in 2016.

In a statement, election lawyer Romulo Macalintal believes Pacquiao can grab a Senate seat even without spending.

“While his family suggested that it is time for Manny to retire, some boxing fans and analysts said that Manny needs two more fights because he needs funds for his political plans for the Senate in 2016,” said Macalintal.

“To this I beg to disagree.  If Manny still fights, it is not because he needs funds for a shot in the Senate race.  As an election lawyer, I can say without fear of contradiction that Manny does not need a single cent to win a seat in the Senate,” he added. 

Pacquiao, who outpointed Timothy Bradley last April 13 to regain the WBO welterweight title, has stated that he plans to fight for two more years. His contract with promoter Top Rank runs through 2014, and Pacquiao has previously indicated he wants to return to the ring by November.

While the fighting congressman made it clear that his boxing career is far from over, he’s considering to run for higher office. Currently representing Sarangani province in the House of Representatives, Pacquiao is reportedly included in the senatorial slate of Vice President Jejomar Binay or the 2016 national polls.

Macalintal, meanwhile, thinks Pacquiao  would get a seat at the Senate  if he decides to push through with his bid.

“Manny is a shoo-in for the Senate. He could even top the Senate race, there being 12 candidates to be voted for. Voters may have a hard time remembering the names of  12 candidates, but Manny’s name recall is enough to make him win and top the polls,” Macalintal added.