Presidential candidate Manny Pacquiao on Thursday said the dumbest people (pinakabobo) are those who would vote for thieves, addressing criticism on his perceived lack of credentials and touching on one of the key themes of the May 9 elections.
The 43-year-old retired boxing superstar and senator is seeking to parlay his sports hero status to Malacanang Palace. Critics have harped on his spotty attendance record in the Senate and in the House of Representatives.
"Sabi nila, si Manny Pacquiao mahina raw ang utak. Pero hindi totoo yan. Ang pinakabobo sa bansa natin, ay yung boboto sa magnanakaw," Pacquiao told a crowd in Pangasinan province, where he campaigned with wife, Jinkee.
Pacquiao did not name the "thief" he was referring to in a Twitter clip of the speech shared by ABS-CBN journalist Sherie Ann Torres.
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Survey frontrunner Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr's presidential campaign has been haunted by allegations of corruption and human rights abuse against his father, the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. He has instead called for "unity".
Pacquiao addressed questions on his capacity to lead during a Feb. 4 interview with the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas. He said he would appoint competent people to his cabinet if elected.
"Alam niyo po, strikto po ako pagdating sa pamumuno," he said.
During the launch of his campaign last Feb. 8, Pacquiao positioned himself as someone who can empathize with the poor since he also rose from poverty.
"Sisiguraduhin ko sa inyo na walang mahirap na inaagrabyado at inaapi...Sisiguraduhin ko sa inyo na walang pamilya na walang sariling tahanan dahil yan po ay ginagawa ko na noon pa man hanggang ngayon," he said.
MORE ON MANNY PACQUIAO:
Manny Pacquiao Says Presidential Candidates Must Disclose Their Wealth
Pacquiao Opposes Abortion: Rape Victims Forced, Yet Played 'Part' in Conception
So Pacquiao Ate With Bare Hands, Does That Beat Swimming in Garbage?
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