World boxing champion Manny Pacquiao may have shifted his political support to Nacionalista Party (NP) presidential candidate Manny Villar but he assured that he is keeping his friendship with President Arroyo and her family.

Pacquiao, wearing an orange baller ID of Villar during his visit in Malacañang, said he still appreciates the support extended by the President in his boxing career despite their political differences.

Pacquiao paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive shortly after he arrived from his victory against Joshua Clottey in Dallas. He will start campaigning for his congressional bid in Sarangani province under the ticket of Villar when the campaign period starts on March 26.

“We’re okay. There is no problem. In fact, ma’am continues to support me in all my fights and I thank her and her family for supporting me,” the boxer told reporters in the Palace, when asked about his relations with the President since he is now allied with Villar.

Pacquiao, accompanied by his wife Jinky, said First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo even watched his fight against Clottey in Texas two weeks ago. “Thank you very much, sir,” he said, looking at the President’s husband in the crowd gathered at the Palace main lobby.

Pacquiao, who is mulling retirement, emphasized that his boxing career should be separated from politics.

“In boxing, I help give honor to the country. In politics, I will give service to the people,” he said. “Whatever my decision in boxing has no connection with politics,” he added.

The boxer is also confident that he could do well as a lawmaker, saying he has sincere intentions to serve the people of Sarangani.

“I want to serve my countrymen. I want to give back the blessings I have received from the Lord by helping our people,” he said.

“We have many leaders and we can see who has the heart to help our people. Helping people is not about how well you speak English. The important thing is you are a hands-on public servant,” he added. (Genalyn Kabiling)