The Boxing Congressman

Quote: “When lions spar, the jungle awaits with bated breath to see who the victor will be. The loser is vanquished and either killed or banished to another part of the jungle.

When boxers fight, the world watches. But what happens to the spoils of the fight, once the fight is over? Should the winner take it all or does the loser have something to look forward to other than sore bones?” Unquote.

For Manny Pacquiao, whenever he throws his rapid punches toward his opponents in the ring, Filipinos in all corners of the world chant the name ‘Manny” as if he is a superstar, though he really is actually.

Of Manny’s there is no doubt that the pambansang kamao has made Philippines a name and fame in the boxing world. Mr. Manny Paquiao is a great fighter that Philippines ever had. He is pride of the Filipinos.

But his stint in the boxing arena, many opined, should be ended now that he is already an honorable. Being Congressman is dignity. The position carries respect in itself and in all sense.

As a lawmaker, the pambansang kamao should protect the dignity of his public office. Pursuing his boxing career while having an honorable position in the government will undeniably blemish his public image as a lawmaker.

Can any Filipino stand to see their lawmaker beastly fighting in a boxing ring battered, pummeled, pounded and thrashed like a fighting cock for a belt, fame and dough? Has there been any of this kind occurring in other countries? Well, probably none! It is only in the Philippines. And it’s just Manny!

So does this make Congressman Paquiao decide whether to pursue fighting Antonio Margarito or anybody, if he does, then such is viewed relegating the honor of his public office, or rather quit boxing to maintain the prestige of Philippine politics.

I think Manny should opt for the latter. The fact that he has graduated from a political refresher course in U.P. is an indication that he would make a good public servant dedicated to elevate the advancement of his constituency and his district of representation.

But if he pursues it he shall turn to be a laughing stock of the world, maligning the prestige of Philippine politics and the reputable law making body of the Philippines. It is for Manny now to give discretion between upholding world fame in the ring and clinging to the world boxing titles or sacrifice it in the name of dignity to the political career and respect to being a congressman.

If Manny still clings to the boxing arena, it is probably because there are rules that bind a professional boxer which needs his adherence. Well, I am not privy to what it is, but I believe that the multi-talented congressman; a singer, actor, lover, father and great champ should once and for all cease the boxing challenges if only, again, to revere his lawmaker position.

But I know it will be difficult for Manny to disregard the arena for it was here that he made a name for himself and his country. And doing so will also frustrate millions of his fans who love to see him doing the Muhammad Ali at the expense of respect to government position and being an honorable legislator.