At this moment, the poll in PACLAND concerning Manny Pacquiao’s decision to enter politics reveals a 91.5% voting for NO to Pacquiao’s political ambition.

Many quarters have also aired their disfavor over PACMAN’s political desire, but as far as I’m concerned, we should give Manny Pacquiao a chance. Read my thoughts.

First, it’s such an unfair prejudgment to claim that there’s nothing or little that he can do in the political world. People should not measure a person’s capability or incapability by what he does not have because there are many variables to success. It has been proved time and again that the intangibles, variables that are not obvious and hard to measure, are the ones that spell out the difference between success and failure even in the world of politics. Pacquiao may not have an impressive educational background but he certainly has the brain that I think is more than ready to be educated. Now, compare his brain with that of “educated” ones which, more often than not, is not only hard to teach but is unwilling to learn.

Second, Manny has proved something in the world of boxing. Let’s admit it, there are boxers out there who hold respectable reputations as persons. Marco Antonio Barrera has been reported to have a law degree but Pacquiao is way above him in the sweet science despite his lack of even a high school diploma. Boxing is not just about guts and brawn but also of wit, and when it comes to wit, Manny has lots of it. He wouldn’t be named the Fighter of the Year for nothing. Now, if he is able to hurdle the challenges of boxing, what prohibits him from doing the same in politics?

Third, at this point in time, Manny has not much to prepare for as a fighter. In fact, there’s nothing left for him to prove in the world of boxing and he wants to try his mettle in the rough and tough world of talkers and kibitzers. He has beaten the best pound-for-pound boxers and has carved out his own niche in top level boxing. Though he does not have a legit belt at the moment, that lack is not so significant if you look at his exploits and winnings. If at all, it is other boxers who should be coming after him because he defines boxing greatness. To beat him is to be great, but of course, to beat him must come with a price. If the price is not right, he has the right to refuse the challenge. Greatness, after all, is not cheap. Now, he is actually trying to become great in the world of politics. He knows the price of his challenge and he is willing to pay. Why should anyone stop him?

Lastly, Manny Pacquiao’s life already is no secret. We have seen his humble beginnings in his life dramas. We saw how he was able to rise from the cauldrons of poverty and we also witnessed his rise to the pedestal of popularity. We have seen his battles not just inside the ring but even in the courts and in his family. We are not ignorant of the kind of humanity that he has and it is something not difficult to admire. His humanity is, in fact, one that’s inspiring and healthily infectious. Doesn’t this personality deserve even a small space in the world of politics? Are we not tired of the pathetic and lousy personalities that have been exerting malevolent domination in almost all corners of government halls, offices and salas?

There is little left to know about Manny Pacquiao, and it is that which he is capable of doing in the political ring. Let’s give him that chance.