Pacquiao bares political, boxing plans before October

MANILA, Philippines — Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao is still pondering his ring plans post-Yordenis Ugas even as the fighting senator contemplates on a possible participation in the Philippine presidential derby.

The 42-year-old Pacquiao climbed the ring two weeks ago and dropped a unanimous decision to Ugas in what may or may not be the final fight of his legendary career.

“Kasama po iyan sa magiging desisyon ko bago mag Oct. 1,” Pacquiao said of his boxing plans in Thursday night’s “The Chiefs” on One News.

Pacquiao, the only fighter to win world titles in eight different divisions, is open to a potential rematch with Cuban WBA (super) welterweight kingpin Ugas after initially hinting of retirement.

For now, however, Pacquiao is tied up with his calling as a public servant.

Pacquiao said he is considering three possible paths for 2022  – vying for the presidency, seeking another Senate term, or retiring from politics altogether.

While training for his last fight in the US, Pacquiao said he was also able to formulate what he called the “22 round priority agenda of Manny Pacquiao for the country.”

This includes, among others, stopping corruption, economic growth and development, free housing for informal settlers, and empowering sports development.

If he decides to fight for the presidency, Pacquiao said he would pursue it with the same passion he’s had in chasing his boxing aspirations.

“Ako kasi, isa akong athlete, isa akong boxer. Ayaw kong mangarap ako at walang mangyayari,” Pacquiao said.

“Nung nag-umpisa ako, andaming nagsasabi sa akin na hindi ako matatanggap sa Philippine team, sinasabi sa akin wala kang pag-asa sa boxing, pero hindi ako nawalan ng pag-asa.

“Kapag iyon ay pinangarap ko, iba yung dedication at focus na ibibigay ko, nagiging passionate ako sa pangarap ko to become a champion not only in the Philippines but all over the world,” he added.