The amazing race

The May elections in bubbling right up. Campaign materials are popping up in the most visible places and the candidates up for public office are splashed all over the media. This year, we're seeing the likes of Manny Pacquiao and Cesar Montano in the running. Pacquiao is running for congressional seat representing South Cotabato and Montano, for a senatorial seat. Talk about a drastic career change. But with their immense popularity and masa appeal (and based on past experience with celebrities who ran for public office), the two are strong contenders in this May's race.

And as expected, the two are getting the backlash from the critics. Everybody's a critic, you know. They say "the Pacman may be called the 'People's Champ' but Pacquiao's victory in politics does not necessarily follow" and "Just stay in show business" for Montano. The two have been criticized for their lack of experience in politics and how it will affect their careers.

Okay, so they're newbies in the field and far from the image of traditional politicians (which is a relief actually). But as the adage goes, every expert was once a beginner and the two men have a great chance to prove they can handle a legislative position…or at least the elections. Robert Savage once said, "You can measure a man by the opposition it takes to discourage him." At least one thing is clear: Pacquiao and Montano are facing the heat and they're not discouraged. It does take a whole load of guts to put oneself out there and to break all these restrictions we've placed on politicians (must stem from a political dynasty or an old-rich family, etc.). It's a right - not a privilege - to run for an elective post and anyone with guts deserves a chance as well. A brave soul is always a strong contender.

However, Pacquiao and Montano should start learning the workings of the legislative mill. It's up to them though. They have the crowd-pleasing quality in check, so they should learn to keep the crowd pleased in the field of politics. It's a different game for them. Pro-administration Representative Bienvenido Abante of Manila said it is about time for the boxing champ to include "brain exercises" in his regular rigid training for his upcoming boxing bout this April. Aside from doing the rigid training, Pacquiao must also engage himself in "healthy and intellectual public debates" which he will need if he is to be in Congress. That's genuine advice. Montano could do the same. The crash course in politics should start now.

In the case of Pacquiao though, it's a bit different. We've had movie stars in politics before and up until now, but a champion boxer aspiring for politics is pretty unique (talk about handing in a stand-out resumé). I've read that boxing fans are burning Internet message boards imploring Pacquiao not to run for public office. In the forum of philboxing.com, one blogger suggested that Pacquiao fans sign a petition which would read: "Manny, please don't run for public office! The entire nation loves you for being our greatest boxer!" What would happen if he were to be full-time politician? But Pacquiao has assured fans that he would stay with the sport which has given him fame and fortune. "Hindi ko makakalimutan ang pagbo-boxing (I will never forget boxing)." I'm keeping my fingers crossed for him. The candidacy has been filed already and the uphill climb is getting steep. But beyond boxing, Manny is a fighter. Let's see him fight his way through elections.

Besides, it's always refreshing to see new faces, especially in the field of politics. That goes double if it's Montano's face (so sue me, I'm a fan) or if it's Pacquiao's (for the Pinoys, he represents victory for the common people, thus dubbed the "People's Champ"). They're rocking the boat and the vote this season. And at least they're giving us something to talk about.

* * *

Email: [email protected]