Manny Pacquiao, Kapuso Na!

Boxer Manny Paquiao just signed an exclusive contract with Philippine television network GMA-7 last Saturday, September 8.  The Kapuso network reportedly has big plans for him; Manny will be doing a sitcom and a possible reality show. You can view the entire article about his contract signing here.

I think I shouldn’t be this surprised. I mean, it was only a matter of time…

I was among those who dissed Pacquiao when he decided to run as congressman and I was ecstatic when he lost. I was among those who raised an eyebrow when I found out that he was going to produce (and STAR!) in a Metro Manila Film Festival entry. But I never, NEVER flamed him for being a boxer. Pacquiao has proven time and again that he is among the best athletes our country has produced. I am grateful for the honor he has brought to the Philippines and I applaud his talent in the boxing ring.

Despite my admiration for his boxing skills, I did not buy his album(s) nor did I watch that Jericho Rosales movie based on his life. I do not understand why he can’t be more like Paeng Nepomuceno and Efren “Bata” Reyes who I think handled the fame and fortune that came their way a lot better than Manny ever did (I’m not counting that movie Efren made with FPJ. I mean, would you say “no” to Da King?).  Manny in a sitcom is a little mind-boggling–I’m trying to imagine him cracking jokes and the picture that comes to mind is Bong Revilla, Jr. with an accent (probably a little less irritating but equally ineffective).  I’m also wondering what kind of reality show he’ll be in… I’m crossing my fingers that neither of the shows will be live.