Boxing legend and Sen. Manny Pacquiao is willing to take over the leadership of the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines (Abap) after president Ricky Vargas made the announcement yesterday that he is stepping down.
“Bakit hindi?” Pacquiao said late yesterday afternoon after attending a session in the Senate.
Pacquiao was obviously saddened by the early exit of boxers Rogen Ladon and Charly Suarez, both medal hopefuls in the Rio Olympics.
“Maraming boxers sa Mindanao na pwedeng ilagay sa national team,” said Pacquiao, who also fought briefly as an amateur before becoming boxing’s only eight-division champion.
Pacquiao is from General Santos City, a hotbed for boxing, and the 37-year-old future Hall of Fame entrant is convinced that he can work wonders if given the opportunity to lead the Abap.
Vargas has ordered high-ranking officials Ed Picson (executive director) and Patrick Gregorio (secretary general) to hold an election at the soonest possible time.
Under Vargas’ eight years of leadership, the Philippines failed to accomplish its task of producing an Olympic medal after failed tries in the 2012 London Games and in Rio.
In London, one fighter made it but light-fly Mark Anthony Barriga, was defeated early in the tournament.