Arum volunteers for Manny’s campaign

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Don’t be surprised to see Bob Arum in one of Manny Pacquiao’s campaign sorties.

Arum, the legendary boxing promoter, said Thursday that he has accepted an invitation from Pacquiao for him to come over to the Philippines and help the boxer in his bid for a Congressional seat in the May 14 elections.

"Every time I open a press conference, do a media day or get interviewed, I wind up giving a campaign speech for Manny," said Arum, who did a great pitch for Pacquiao during Wednesday’s Blaze of Glory press conference here.

"I so believe in Manny’s issues. I have decided to accept his invitation to go to General Santos City to stump for him. With all his success, Manny has not lost touch with the people," said Arum.

"He (Pacquiao) wants to give back and I applaud the personal sacrifice he is making on behalf of his community," added the 75-year-old boxing icon who plans to fly to the Philippines and catch the last week of the campaign.

It the trip pushes through, it will be Arum’s third visit to the Philippines. The first was in 1975 when he helped promote the Ali-Frazier Thrilla in Manila, and the second last December when he announced Pacquiao’s tie-up with Top Rank.

In front of the media at Alamodome, Arum raised the hand of the Filipino superstar also known as the "people’s champion."

"He’s the man of the people. He will look for ways on how the people can improve their lives, how they can be better educated, and how they can move forward," Arum, still kicking at 75, said.

Whatever happens on Saturday, Pacquiao said he should be back in Manila on April 18, and fly straight to Gen. Santos City to resume his campaign. The campaign period ends two days before the elections.

Hopefully, Pacquiao can do this with the help of Arum, a brilliant lawyer who once served in the US Justice Department during John F. Kennedy’s presidency. –Abac Cordero