Friday, January 26, 2007 Editorial: Pacquiao exemption
MORE election developments on the national scene deserve analysis and review from local media in the province if only to discern whether these would apply to their communities and to their local officials who are once again on the throes of another merry political campaign.
Right off the bat is the startling disclosure that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) granted exemption for the 20 high powered firearms to Filipino champ Manny Pacquiao for his own protection without having to coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP), notwithstanding the superiority of civilian authority over its law enforcement arm.
While one cannot deny that the Filipino champion deserves protection from potential criminal and rebel elements who want to do him in, still the reason was that Pacquiao sought permission not from himself but for the many bodyguards who would not have managed to secure such high-powered firearms without the boxer's petition before the election agency.
Provided there was a legitimate reason for securing these firearms, still regulations dictate that the PNP should be informed on this matter.
The Comelec, despite its protestations that it is an apolitical agency tasked to implement a political exercise, is nevertheless chaired by a former politician who sees in this further incentive to invite Pacquiao to campaign for the administration's candidates.
Pacquiao being a loyal supporter of "Ma'am" already would have no problem securing the exemption for his high-powered firearms.
But then again this action somewhat gives the impression that contrary to his populist image, Pacquiao is one of them now, or one with the establishment in lieu of his so-called "People's Champ" title that Filipinos have so eagerly bestowed on him due to his impressive rung victories.
This little incident with the Comelec may not ruin his rep by a long shot but one has to wonder what other special privilege Pacquiao would avail himself of the next time around. Given his stature, people may fall all over themselves giving it to him.
One could only hope this little incident with the Comelec is just that and not turn to something worse. Whether he likes to believe it or not, he is now being looked up to by scores of Filipinos and one only wishes he won't have to be caught in these type of controversies.
One would hate to have to hear news of Pacquiao exploiting his stature to gain some favors or exemptions, which while also pursued by other celebrities, at least are done discreetly.
