Pacquiao files COC for Senate return, defends Marcos family

Boxer-turned-politician Manny Pacquiao officially filed his certificate of candidacy on Monday, October 7, seeking a return to the Senate.

Pacquiao, who previously criticized the Marcos family over martial law and corruption, is now part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s endorsed Senate slate.

He stated his primary motivation for running is to continue his fight against corruption, which he described as the "cancer of Philippine society."

Pacquiao defended the Marcos family regarding corruption issues, referencing the country's economy during the Marcos Sr. era.

The former senator, first elected in 2016, had previously run for president in 2022, losing to Marcos Jr.

Pacquiao also criticized families who treat politics as a business, acknowledging the absence of a law prohibiting political dynasties despite his son's local political bid.