17/09/2026
IN THE NEWS | PACMAN’S WORDS TURN HEADS AGAIN
Former Senator Manny Pacquiao’s past remarks have resurfaced following his appointment by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as Secretary and Lead Convenor of the National Anti‑Poverty Commission (NAPC).
On April 10, 2022, during the presidential campaign season, Pacquiao strongly denounced alleged widespread corruption in the country and urged voters not to support those involved.
“The Marcoses—billions, trillions in corruption—yet we would still vote for them? What great intelligence we have,” Pacquiao had stated in a public speech at the time.
More than four years later, his political stance has shifted. On September 8, 2026, Pacquiao took his oath of office before President Marcos as the new head of NAPC — the body tasked with coordinating government anti‑poverty initiatives.
Upon returning to public service, Pacquiao expressed gratitude for the President’s trust and vowed to ensure government assistance reaches the poorest Filipinos directly.
NAPC’s mandate is to align and strengthen poverty reduction and social reform programs, including ensuring meaningful participation from marginalized sectors in policy‑making processes.
