Manny Pacquiao’s bid for a senatorial comeback appears to have hit the canvas. As of 80.55% of total election returns, the boxing legend-turned-politician ranks 18th—six places short of reclaiming a Senate seat. With only 8.4 million votes, he faces a statistical impossibility in overtaking Senator Imee Marcos, who sits comfortably in the 12th spot with over 10 million votes.
Where did it all go wrong for the “People’s Champ”?
To begin with, Pacquiao’s political strategy has been erratic, if not opportunistic. He has long been criticized as a politician who goes “where the water flows”—aligning with whoever is in power. This reputation was reinforced in this election cycle. Once a vocal critic of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Pacquiao highlighted the corruption associated with the Marcos regime during his 2022 presidential run. But as Marcos solidified his grip on power, Pacquiao reversed course, praising the very administration he once opposed.
Then came another pivot. Following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, public sentiment began to shift toward the Duterte camp. Pacquiao, sensing the winds of change, quietly appeared to realign with some of Duterte’s allies, including Bong Go, Bato dela Rosa, and Rodante Marcoleta. Although he did not openly campaign with them, their faces shared tarpaulins in several areas. For many voters, this was yet another sign of inconsistency—a lack of a clear, principled stand.
This political zigzagging alienated supporters on all sides. In politics, loyalty matters. And in an era of hyper-partisan loyalties, Pacquiao’s shifting alliances raised eyebrows and cost him credibility.
Then there’s his track record. Over his years in office—from being the Representative of Sarangani (2010–2016) to his stint in the Senate (2016–2022)—Pacquiao passed a total of 25 laws, 13 of which he principally authored. Among them were the National Bible Day Act, Handbook for OFWs Act, and Sarangani Sports Center Act. As co-author, he supported key legislation like the Universal Health Care Act, Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, and 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law.
While these are commendable contributions, none directly reflect the anti-poverty, pro-masa rhetoric Pacquiao now champions. The disconnect between his legislative output and his campaign messaging likely contributed to public skepticism.
Also worth noting is his attendance record. As a congressman, Pacquiao was among the top absentees, with 22 missed sessions from July 2015 to June 2016. The trend continued in the Senate, where he again topped absentee lists in 2018–2019. For someone asking to be re-elected on the promise of service and representation, this was a glaring red flag.
It appears that Pacquiao’s political capital was more rooted in his fame as a boxing icon than in tangible legislative impact. Voters may finally be drawing a line between the athlete they admire and the public servant they expect.
With the 2025 senatorial race nearly decided, it may be time for Pacquiao to re-focus on his comeback fight scheduled in July in Las Vegas. At 45, he is no longer the unstoppable force of his youth, and age is a real opponent in the ring.
While Pacquiao’s political future remains uncertain, his family’s grip on local politics—such as his son Jimuel’s position as a city councilor in General Santos—ensures the Pacquiao name will remain relevant. But for Manny himself, this loss is a stark reminder that in politics, name recognition can only go so far. Consistency, credibility, and real service still matter.
From the ring to the Senate floor, the people have spoken. This time, Manny Pacquiao must accept the decision—and perhaps learn from it.