Pacquiao asks Drilon if he can return to the ring

MANILA – Senate President Franklin Drilon said Thursday that he told Sen. Manny Pacquiao to schedule his supposed upcoming fight in the US during the break at the Senate.

Drilon said he told Pacquiao that he can proceed with his fight as long as it does not interfere with his legislative work.

"His commitment is that he will not neglect his duties as a senator and I take his word for that," said Drilon.

Drilon said he gave this advice after the retired boxing icon asked him if he could still go back to the ring.

Pacquiao, 37, earlier told AFP that his top priority was his political career but that his love for boxing had not diminished.

"When you put your passion and your dedication in one sport, you cannot say you're leaving that sport if your passion is there," Pacquiao has said.

"Boxing is always my passion and I grew up (as a boxer). The Lord helped me (make) a name in boxing history."

Pacquiao added he was still physically fit to return to the ring. "I am still strong. I am still young," he said.

Pacquiao's promoter, Bob Arum, had said that the eight-division world champion planned to fight on either October 29 or November 5 as a main event bout in Las Vegas.

Drilon, meanwhile, said he expects the re-organization of the Senate under the leadership of Sen. Aquilino "Koko" Pimenel III will be done by August 15.

With senators coming from various political parties forming a majority, Drilon said it is expected that there will varied opinions of senators.

"There are 24 opinions on any issue," said Drilon. - with Agence France Presse