Crystal Maze

I have a problem when people say that Manny Pacquiao does not deserve to be and should not be congratulated for his latest win in the ring because he has been a terrible lawmaker and a homophobic bigot. I have always had a problem when people refuse to recognize the many facets of an individual and judge that individual based solely on a standard that one arbitrarily sets and considers to be the only significant determinant of how that individual should be seen and treated. This refusal necessarily results in a failure to appreciate the complexities inherent in the very nature of human beings as creatures of independent thought, decision-making, and free will. People seem to forget that this refusal is, in and of itself, an act of bigotry, and the height of hypocrisy. 

To an advocate of LGBT rights, Pacquiao’s stance on same-sex relationships and marriage is offensive and immoral. And while I opt not to throw around the word “immoral” in mediums such as this, I will say that I strongly disagree with his position, and that I consider it especially dangerous that he thinks that way because he has the power to shape lasting and encompassing policy on the matter, which will affect millions of lives. I also find it appalling how he neglects to satisfactorily fulfill his functions as a lawmaker and how he continues to capitalize on his fame as a boxer to perpetuate his political power. 

To a family who used to subsist on the sparse vegetation in their small yard, but now has a small but thriving business, thanks to philanthropist Pacquiao, the boxer will always be a hero. To the emaciated boy who practices in the ring everyday after school, hoping to follow in the footsteps of his idol, Pacquiao will always be the GOAT. 

Are they wrong to think so highly of this man who was once like them, impoverished and marginalized, but has now improved not only his life but also those of hundreds, if not thousands, of people? Are they wrong to aspire to become this man who has built his empire from the ground up, out of unforgiving discipline and expertise in his chosen field? Is their view of this man any less significant or weaker than those who vilify him for his thoughts on LGBT issues? Are they less deserving of consideration simply because you do not agree with their position? When you demonize people and say that their thoughts do not deserve attention because how can they see this immoral man differently from the way you see him, isn’t that the height of bigotry? Have you not become the very person you so deeply shun? Isn’t it hypocrisy on your part to hold other people to a standard as if you cannot and have never done any wrong yourself, as if you have not made your own horrible mistakes in life?

This is not to defend Pacquiao in any manner. This is not to justify his failings and his mistakes. He is very wrong to say that homosexuals are “masahol pa sa hayop” (worse than animals). He is wrong to absent himself from session days in the legislature and not work harder to craft laws that will benefit his constituents. He is wrong when he does not use his power and influence to demand more from public servants like himself. 

All this, however, is but one aspect of his life. 

Manny Pacquiao is not just the homophobic bigot that you so abhor. He is not just the failed legislator that many of us wish would step up and be the statesman that he (or any politician for that matter) can be. He means the world to other people who look up to him. And they are not wrong to admire him for the good things that he does. And while I can understand and accept people congratulating him for winning his fight against Lucas Matthysse (I refuse to do so because I think boxing is not sports but violence and toxic masculinity with gloves), I call him out for preparing for this fight on my dime as a taxpayer. I agree with Freddie Roach: “Either be a senator or boxer. Pick one or the other, and that’s it. You can’t do both officially. It’s almost impossible."

They say Pacquiao has had a great run as a boxer. He should not let his other failures tarnish that. And because I believe human beings are by nature good, and I am not one to easily give up on people, even the most horrible ones, I believe Pacquiao has great potential as a politician and public servant. His sense of discipline, humility, and pragmatism are a great combination for him to best serve his constituents and to truly make a mark as a representative of the people. People can change their minds all the time. I hope you do. I hope Pacquiao does, too -- about homosexuality, same-sex relationships, gender equality, and retirement.