Sunday, November 26, 2006 Let's give Pacman peace and privacy this X'mas: lawmaker
"IF WE WANT to help (Filipino boxing icon Manny) Pacquiao at this moment, I think we need to give him peace and privacy this Christmas."
So said Bacolod Lone District Representative Monico Puentevella, who also said that he pitied Pacquiao who now becomes a "victim" with the left and right invitation for political endorsement.
"Yes, a lot of politicians are aiming to get Pacquiao as their endorser for next year. But let's make Pacquiao rest first and have his peace of mind and privacy with his family especially with his three kids," Puentevella said.
Asked for comment on the report that Pacquiao will be the top endorser of Mayor Evelio Leonardia next year, Puentevella said, "It's up to the guy (Pacquiao)."
On the other hand, Transportation and Communication Assistant Secretary Ricardo "Cano" Tan refused to comment on this report.
"As far as I am concerned, Pacquiao is for everybody and not for Bing alone," Tan said.
In Manila, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the Palace has no immediate plans of asking Pacquiao to help the administration ticket. "But if he (Pacquiao) wants to volunteer to campaign for the government's candidates in the 2007 elections, Malacañang will not reject him," Bunye added.
Pacquiao is known to be President Gloria-Arroyo's avid supporter.
When asked if the administration would seek Pacquiao's help in the election campaign, Bunye said: "I don't think so."
Pressed further on what the administration would do if Pacquiao volunteered his services, Bunye said: "We will not refuse any offer of assistance."
Meanwhile, thousands of Filipinos poured onto the streets of Manila early Friday morning to welcome home Pacquiao.
Pacquiao, 27-year-old who has become an inspiration for his rise from poverty was mobbed by thousands of fans as soon as his plane touched down at the Ninoy
Aquino International Airport (Naia) from Las Vegas at past 5 a.m.
Streets were jammed, traffic had to be rerouted and reporters scrambled for coverage.
Vendors were selling small Philippine flags and "Pacman" souvenirs, like towels with the boxer's image.
Even police cars were adorned with his posters.
Pacquiao, who cemented his status as one of the world's best pound-for-pound fighters, heard a Mass at the Quiapo church in the heart of Manila, with fans watching his every step.
"Pacquiao legend”, "the people's champion," read streamers near the church.
Wearing a black cowboy hat after emerging from the airport, Pacquiao seemed at ease with his celebrity status, smiling, patiently shaking hands and having his picture taken.
"I'm not tired. I'm happy because of the warm welcome," he said. (EASD with reports from Sunnex)
