Michael Stephen Pacquiao, the 22-year-old son of boxing legend and reelectionist senator Manny Pacquiao, has officially filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for a councilor position in General Santos City. Running under the People’s Champ Movement, a local political party, Michael aims to focus on education, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.
In a statement, Michael emphasized the importance of the younger generation in shaping the future of the city. When asked about his father’s advice, he said, “It is my decision; I have my own goals here… I was inspired by my dad to be involved in politics.”
Manny Pacquiao and his wife, Jinky, accompanied Michael during the filing. Manny, who is running for reelection under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas, is also in the political spotlight.
Before entering politics, Michael was known for his career in hip-hop and rap music, sharing that his path in music initially surprised his parents.