Famous Philippine boxing star and Senator Manny Pacquiao announced that he will run for presidency in the 2022 elections.

Pacquiao, president of the PDP-Laban faction, accepted his party's nomination and said that the Filipino people have been waiting for a change of government.

“We need government to serve our people with integrity, compassion and transparency,” expressed Pacquiao in a speech.

For his part, current President Rodrigo Duterte, has accepted a nomination by another faction of the same PDP-Laban party to be the vice-presidential candidate.

During his time in office, Duterte has led a huge campaign against illegal drugs. However, his former ally, Pacquiao, has accused him of increasing corruption in the Philippines. 

The boxing star responded to critics questioning his qualifications for presidency, explaining that his personal life experience will help him understand people’s suffering and fight poverty and corruption.

“In my whole life, I have not backed down on any fight,” stressed Pacquiao. “I am a fighter, and I will always be a fighter inside and outside the ring,” he added.

The world champion has also pledged to place corrupt politicians in jail soon.