Why Donaire won’t vote for Pacquiao as president

MANILA, Philippines – They may share the same trade and distinction as world-class Filipino boxers, but Nonito Donaire Jr. isn’t a fan of Manny Pacquiao the politician.

And if Pacquiao, currently a senator, decides to go for the highest public office in the land someday, he won’t have Donaire’s vote for now.

“Honestly, I probably wouldn't [vote for Pacquiao as president],” the Filipino-American boxer said in a video posted by Luis Sandoval of fighthype.com.

Video by fighthype.com

Donaire is in Los Angeles to promote his WBO super bantamweight title defense against Magdaleno, which, interestingly, will be held in the undercard of Pacquiao’s fight with Jessie Vargas on November 5.

After taking the dais and talking about his upcoming fight, Donaire spent some time talking to reporters, even about things other than boxing. He was then asked about his thoughts on Pacquiao running for Philippine president in the future.

Donaire pointed out that Pacquiao lacks the commitment at this point.

“In order for you to become the president, you have to take the words of the people, you have to be there, you have to have the time,” he said.

Pacquiao is known to wear different hats, and in fact, has chosen to hold his training for Vargas at a gym near the Senate office in Pasay City after sessions.

Some observers believe Pacquiao has set his sights on the presidency, with the senate as his springboard. He had been congressman representing Sarangani province, and was noted for his absences, which Donaire also singled out.

“He's not presented himself well as a politician. He's presented himself as a celebrity,” said Donaire. “For once, he is the most absentee in the congress."

"But in terms of becoming the president, you have to put your effort, your mind,” he added.

Pacquiao’s commitment to his duties as a public servant has again been put in question when he decided to resume fighting just five months after announcing his retirement. After defeating Bradley last April, Pacquiao said he is hanging up his gloves to focus on politics.

The Filipino then quickly changed his mind, announcing his fight with Vargas. And Donaire has called him out for it.

“Sometimes you gotta be true to your word. I love Manny, he's a great friend of mine, but I'm looking at it as a man who wants the country to become better,” said Donaire.

“In order for him to get my vote, he has to commit. If he says 'I'm retired', then you stay that way.”