Boxing great Manny Pacquiao has failed in his pursuit to become the president of the Philippines. The 43-year-old obtained only 6.6% votes according to the initial count.
In September of last year Manny Pacquiao hung up his boxing gloves in a bid to become the president. The rumors of his political ambitions had been going around even before his retirement. He became a senator in 2015 while still actively competing.
After announcing his retirement from boxing, Pacquiao spent months traveling the country as part of his campaign. He promised to eradicate corruption and to raise the standard of living for the citizens.
“I am a boxer. I am used to whatever contest there is,” he said. “I am letting the people decide. But remember, regret is always at the end. We have always regretted our decisions, so let’s not repeat our mistakes now.” Pacquiao said prior to the initial count came out.
He added, “If you want true change, which we have been looking for for a long time, join me, so that you can see the true change and we can discipline erring officials who take advantage of their positions for their personal gains.”
Unfortunately, his dream came to an end before the presidential election was held.
On the pre-election polls, ‘Pacman’ only managed to obtain around 4 million votes, which is around 6.6%.
Following such a low number of votes, Pacquiao decided to accept defeat and step down. He firmly accepted his defeat and still wished the best for Philippines citizens.
“As a boxer and an athlete, I know how to accept defeat. I just hope that even if I lost this fight, my fellow Filipinos who are suffering will win.” Pacquiao said.
Even though he is done running for the presidency, Manny Pacquiao won’t return to the boxing ring. His last match was in August last year against welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas.