Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who has proven himself to be fast not only in the boxing ring but also in training for the legislative arena, appeared very interested on how he could bring home to his constituents in Sarangani many public works and other projects that would be funded from the pork barrel fund to be allocated to him.

Quezon Rep. Lorenzo Tañada III, a key House of Representatives ally of President-elect Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, bared this after conducting lectures for neophyte lawmakers during a recent workshop at the University of the Philippines.

Tañada said Pacquiao was among the more than a dozen new solons who attended the lecture.

Also in attendance was congresswoman-elect Lucy Torres and her actor husband, Richard Gomez.

Tañada admitted that Gomez, a perennial loser in political contests he has participated in, was among the participants in the class who asked many question.

The actor, it was learned, has been constantly seen escorting his wife, who was elected congresswoman of Leyte, in official functions for newly-elected legislators.

Pacquiao, Torres and at least 120 more Lower House newcomers have been undergoing intensive training to prepare them for their legislative tasks. The neophytes have also been invited to a simulated practice session before Congress resumes session on July 26.

Tañada said Pacquiao threw sensible and intelligent questions during the open forum that followed his lecture meant to orient neophytes about legislative work.

At one point, the internationally-renowned boxing champion asked what legislative work he could accomplish in his first 100 days.

“Session opens July 26, so that’s 26 days already. We are then expected to organize the committees which would take at least two months,” said Tañada in admitting that no legislative accomplishment can be achieved during the first 100 days.

Like Pacquiao, Gomez, the actor, was also interested on how long it takes before they could implement projects funded from Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and what public works projects should be done.

“My advice was for them to get in touch with their constituents and make them decide,” said Tanada.

Tañada, who is reportedly being eyed as the next Deputy Speaker for Luzon, said he also assured the tyros in the chamber that they need not participate in floor debates.

“Sabi ko walang pressure na tumayo sa plenary. But they can participate actively in committee level discussions,” he said.

Tañada said he gave the House newcomers three pieces of advice on how to become effective lawmakers.

“I told Manny and the others that they should realize that being a congressman is not a license to do anything they want, especially if this is against the law,” said Tañada.

He also reminded them to regularly attend sessions and enlist as members of only a handful committees where they could concentrate best.

“Don’t forget that you are being paid by the people to attend sessions. I also advised them that they can already make themselves busy even if they sign up for only four or five committees,” Tañada added.