Manny Pacquiao

Biography

Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao, more famously known as Manny "PacMan" Pacquiao, is a multifaceted personality from the Philippines. He is recognised globally for his achievements in the boxing ring and in the political arena. Born on December 17, 1978, in Kibawe, Bukidnon, the Philippines, Pacquiao's journey from a life of poverty in General Santos to international fame is a testament to his resilience, hard work, and determination.

Pacquiao's boxing career is nothing short of legendary. Known as the only eight-division world champion in the history of boxing, he has garnered twelve major world titles and became the first boxer to win the lineal championship in five different weight classes. His achievements span across four decades (1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s), making him the only boxer to hold world championships in these four decades. In 2019, at 40, he became the oldest welterweight world champion in history, marking yet another record in his illustrious career. Pacquiao's fights have generated approximately $1.2 billion in revenue from his 25 pay-per-view bouts, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.

Aside from his boxing prowess, Pacquiao has also significantly impacted Philippine politics. He served as a senator from 2016 to 2022 after being elected as the representative of Sarangani province in 2010. His political career saw him leading the ruling PDP–Laban party, although his position became disputed in 2021. In September 2021, Pacquiao declared his candidacy for President of the Philippines in the 2022 elections but was unsuccessful.

Pacquiao's influence extends beyond boxing and politics. He has ventured into basketball, acting, and music, showcasing his versatile talents. As a basketball enthusiast, he was the head coach and a player for the Philippine Basketball Association team Kia/Mahindra. He has starred in several films and TV shows and released music albums that have achieved platinum status in the Philippines.

His strong faith marks Pacquiao's personal life as an Evangelical Christian preacher and his commitment to philanthropy. He married Jinkee Jamora in 1999, and they have five children. Despite his global fame, Pacquiao remains deeply connected to his roots. He often uses his platform to give back to his community and inspire others.

Manny Pacquiao's legacy as a boxer, politician, and public figure is characterised by his remarkable achievements and his profound impact on his country and the world. His story of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness in multiple arenas inspires many.