LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON: Michael Pacquiao throws hat in political ring

National

COUNT another Pacquiao in the world of politics. Rapper Michael Stephen Pacquiao has decided to follow in the footsteps of his celebrated father, boxer-turned politician Manny Pacquiao, after he decided to run for councilor in General Santos City.

The second son of former Senator Manny Pacquiao, is aspiring to secure one of the 12 councilor seats in General Santos under the People’s Champ Movement, the party founded by his father.

Michael’s political journey is deeply intertwined with his family.

Leading the local branch of the People’s Champ Movement is his aunt, incumbent mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, who is preparing to face former mayor Ronnel Rivera in the upcoming elections.

Lorelie is joined in the ticket by councilor Jose Orlando Acharon as her running mate.

The Pacquiao family’s political influence extends beyond Michael and Lorelie.

Bobby Pacquiao, Manny’s younger brother, serves as a councilor, while another brother, Rogelio, holds the position of governor in Sarangani.

Their cousins, Zyrex and Mark, are also engaged in public service as the mayor of Maasim, Sarangani, and a member of the Sarangani legislative board, respectively.

Additionally, Russel Jamora, Manny’s brother-in-law, is on Sarangani’s provincial board, with all family members seeking reelection.

As Michael embarks on his political journey, his father, Manny Pacquiao, is also eyeing a return to the political arena. After a challenging presidential campaign in 2022, the elder Pacquiao Manny is gearing up for a senatorial bid.(CMM)