Pacquiao makes up mind, decides to run for Congress

Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has made up his mind-- he will definitely run for a congressional seat in the May 14 elections. Pacquiao confirmed his decision to GMA News in an exclusive interview to end talk that he had turned his back on politics.

The people's champ also admitted that at first he was hesitating to jump into the political fray due to his April fight with Mexican champion Jorge Solis.But he said his heart dictated that he should serve the people of South Cotabato. He told the network that he had already talked with village chairmen from various towns in South Cotabato Friday to solicit their support.

Pacquiao had earlier said he will set aside for the meantime his plans to seek the congressional post in the first district of South Cotabato.

He said he will first focus on his fight in Texas. Pacquiao left for United States on March 5 to prepare for his April 14 bout against the undefeated Solis.

Pacquiao got unsolicited advice from sports and political analysts to think twice about entering the political arena.

Veteran sportscaster Ed Picson said Pacquiao should focus on his boxing career instead of seeking the congressional seat in the first district of South Cotabato.

"Right now Manny's career is on the rise ... Right now he is at the peak of his strength. It will be unfortunate if it goes to waste," Picson said in Filipino during an interview with GMA News.

He noted that even the brightest boxing stars fade, in a profession which can end before the final bell.

"But in politics, even until the very end [when you're old], you can still be fit there," Picson said.

Pacquiao is fresh from his three-round conquest of Mexican boxing legend Erik "El Terible" Morales last November 18 in Las Vegas, Nevada. - GMANews.TV