Presidential aspirant Sen. Manny Pacquiao has decided to ignore criticisms hurled against his distribution of relief and cash aid to the poor during his sorties.
Instead of heeding the accusations of vote-buying hurled by critics and rivals, Pacquiao challenged politicians to follow his lead especially during the Christmas gift-giving season.
The Filipino boxing legend said Filipinos need the help the could get, especially since they are still reeling from the effects of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID 19) pandemic.
Talking to the media after going around San Pedro and Biñan in Laguna province Tuesday, Dec. 7, Pacquiao reiterated his "ayuda challenge" to all politicians saying that this is the best opportunity for them to help the people.
Pacquiao, who is an adopted son of San Pedro and Biñan, insisted that he has been giving relief and cash to the people since 2002 and would continue doing so until it is already forbidden under the Omnibus Election Code.
“Magpapatuloy ‘yan hanggang sa pagbawalan tayo ng Comelec, susunod tayo. Pero nasa puso ko na yung pagtulong mula pa noon. (That will continue until the Comelec stops us, we will comply. But helping others has been in my heart even before” Pacquiao said.
"Yung mga kritiko gawin na lang nila. Itong perang pinamimigay natin hindi naman ito ninakaw. (Critics should do the same. We do not steal the money we give,” he stated.
Waving the Philippine flag just like he did during his fights, Pacquiao went around the cities of San Pedro, Biñan, and Sta. Rosa on a float as people poured into the streets to show their support.
Pacquiao said he can never abandon his commitment to share his blessings as much as he can because he can never bring any of his earthly treasures when he goes to the afterlife. .
After a short courtesy visit to San Pedro City Mayor Lourdes Cataquiz where they also exchanged tokens ( Cataquiz gave Pacquiao the city's "key" while she got an autographed boxing gloves in return), the "People's Champ" toured the city on a float, dishing out t-shirts, ballers, face masks and even some cash to residents.
His motorcade then proceeded to Biñan for another courtesy call to Laguna Rep.Len Alonte. He then continued to Sta. Rosa City where he also met with Mayor Arlene Arcillas before doing another motorcade throughout the city.