Manny Pacquiao – Boxing, Politics and The Alternative Learning System

The Champ’s Beginnings

Manny Pacquiao, one of the most famous Filipino in the field of boxing  the country has ever produced.  Born December 17, 1978, in the province of Bukidnon, Philippines, Manny’s humble beginnings are not a secret to everyone. As a young lad, living in extreme poverty was a challenge his family had faced just like many others. He left home at the age of 14  for reasons that his parents can’t support the family’s  basic needs.

As a result of his difficulties, Manny was unable to complete his high school studies.  A familiar situation faced by many youths in today’s society in the Philippines. Ending up in the streets of Manila, he took to boxing as a means to make ends meet.  But what started as just a way to make money, the talent that he possessed earned him a place in the Philippine National Amateur Boxing Team where his further trainings were sponsored by the Government. This was the beginning of what was to be his greatest achievement in his life.

The Alternative Learning System for Manny Pacquiao

After having carved a name for himself in the early days of his boxing career, Manny had the urge to go back and  complete one of the basic elements an individual needs to succeed in life, his education.  This is where he discovered the Alternative Learning System Program of the Department of Education, Philippines.  Specifically designed for people who are unable to complete their basic formal education due to poverty and the lack of support. The program aims to integrate these individuals back to formal education and to make them productive citizens of society.

Having gone through the process of his studies in the said program, Manny took the high school equivalency test  in February 2007 and passed making him eligible for college education. He was given a high school diploma for making the grade. Since then and in between his busy schedules, Manny enrolled for a college degree in business management at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU) in his hometown in General Santos City.  He was also conferred with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities on February 18, 2009, by Southwestern University (SWU)  in  Cebu City in recognition of his boxing achievements and humanitarian work. 

Congressman Pacquiao

As it is today after having won the elections for Congressman for the province of Sarangani, Manny enrolled in  the Certificate Course in Development, Legislation, and Governance at the Development Academy of the Philippines in preparation for his duties as Congressman.

His Achievements

Manny Pacquiao’s achievements includes being  a seven-division world champion, the first boxer in history to win nine world titles in seven different weight divisions. A popular entertainment figure in the Philippine music and movie industry. And a Congressman for the province of Sarangani.

An Ambassador  for Education

However blessed with a talent for boxing,  Manny’s  exploits in life is a shining example of what education means to an individual.  As an Ambassador for education, this is his call for the less fortunate that all is not loss. The Alternative Learning System is available for everyone who wishes to get back to formal education. For further information of the program you can read my previous article Alternative Learning System and Home Study Programs in the Philippines. And Street Children in The Philippines – Children of a Lesser God.

Next Fight

Manny Pacquiao is scheduled to face Antonio Margarito for the Junior Middleweight title on November 13, 2010 at the Cowboys Stadium, Texas.  We wish you well Manny for you are a shining example of what education can do to one.  For updates in his upcoming fight,  please read: Pacquiao-Margarito Fight: Manny Pacquiao’s Biggest Challenge.