By Karen Lema

MANILA (Reuters – Manny Pacquiao a former boxing star was the first person to declare his candidacy to become the next President of the Philippines. This occurred at the time of registration to thousands of positions in what will be a heated election next May.

This year, the weeklong registrations will not be as festive with large crowds. Instead, restrictions have been put in place to combat one of Asia’s most deadly COVID-19 diseases.

Pacquiao was accompanied by Lito, his wife and running partner, as he submitted his candidacy certificate to the polling body. After that, he spoke to the media briefly about what his plans were should a victory occur.

Pacquiao was dressed in a maroon shirt with a face mask and white face mask featuring the Philippine flag.

Pacquiao received dozens upon he arrived at the registration office.

Pacquiao expressed his satisfaction with the fourth place in the preferred presidential candidate list.

Pacquiao, one of the most renowned boxers ever and the only person to have world championships in 8 different divisions of boxing, retired from the sport in September in order to become a candidate for the presidency. He is currently a senator, and he has been a congressman for two terms.

This registration should bring an end to the months-long speculation surrounding who will be the next President Rodrigo Duterte. At 76 years old, the constitution prohibits him from seeking reelection. Instead, Duterte will run for the vice presidency.

Two other candidates have announced their intent to run for the presidency, Pacquiao and Panfilo Lacson. Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno”, an actor who was also in Manila, and Senator Panfilo Lacson who is an ex-police chief were both expected to submit their certificates over the coming days.

However, Sara Duterte Carpio (the president’s daughter) will get the most attention, even though she has decided not to run for office next year.

Duterte Carpio (43), replaced her father in Davao City as mayor after he was elected president. According to subsequent opinion polls, she is still the most liked presidential candidate.

Analysts believe it’s crucial that her father’s son is loyalist to protect him against potential legal action by home and the International Criminal Court over his thousands of drug-related deaths since 2016.

Critics claim that Duterte’s interest in running for the vice presidency may also be motivated by self-preservation. Duterte claims that his motivations are public service and not for power.

Leni Robertredo is the Vice President of the Opposition. Supporters also urge her to run for the highest office.

She stated, “In these coming days please pray with us so that our choice will be the best for our country.”

In May 2022, more than 60 million Filipinos are eligible to vote for the new president and vice president.

The deadline for candidates to register is Oct. 8. However, withdrawals or substitutions can be made until Nov. 15. This allows for flexibility for any last-minute change of heart. Duterte won the 2016 election by an impressive margin.