Lito Atienza on Kim, Pacquiao

MANILA, Philippines – When he’s out of town, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza is known as Manny Pacquiao’s friend and the father of Kim Atienza of ABS-CBN’s Matanglawin and Umagang Kay Ganda.

But the former Manila mayor isn’t complaining. He’s even proud of being Pacquiao’s godfather of sorts and Kim’s real-life dad.

As Kim’s father, Atienza is happy his TV host-son has found his calling. Kim has shunned politics and following in his father’s footsteps in favor of showbiz. Here, he can focus on his burning passions: Animal rights and environmental causes.

The father looks pleased when he says, “Kim will no longer join politics.”

The older Atienza has another son, albeit an “adopted” one, in Manny Pacquiao. And as a concerned father, Atienza is ready to offer words of wisdom to the boxing champ.

“I advised him to shelve his plans to run for congressman in Sarangani and just focus on his boxing career. I told Manny he has given honor to the country and 10 million OFWs admire him for that,” reveals Atienza.

Luckily, he notes, Manny listens. Just like a sponge, Manny absorbs everything he sees and hears.

“I had a heart-to-heart talk with him,” says Atienza. “Manny is like a son to me. And when I talked to him, I think he understood what I was saying. I think he won’t toss his hat into the political ring anymore.”

Let’s cross our fingers on that.