Manny Pacquiao and son Michael Stephen Pacquiao. While the elder Pacquiao fell short in his Senate comeback bid, Michael secured his first term as a city councilor in General Santos City, continuing the family’s political legacy. – Photo from Michael Pacquiao’s Instagram Page
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Boxing icon and former Senator Manny Pacquiao fell short in his attempt to return to the Philippine Senate in the 2025 midterm elections, finishing outside the winning circle. But the Pacquiao family still found cause to celebrate — his 23-year-old son, Michael Stephen Pacquiao, won his first term as a councilor in their hometown of General Santos City.
Pacquiao, who served in the Senate from 2016 to 2022 and ran for president in 2022, placed 18th in the unofficial tally of senatorial candidates, not enough to reclaim a seat in the upper chamber. He ran under the administration-backed Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition.
Speaking after the results, Michael admitted the family was surprised by the outcome. “For me personally, I thought he would make it to the Top 12,” he told reporters. “But overall, he said he was fine and that he’s accepted it.”
While his father was unsuccessful on the national stage, Michael made a successful political debut. A first-time candidate and recent college graduate, Michael filed his candidacy in October 2024 under the People’s Champ Movement (PCM), a local party founded by his father. He finished seventh in the city council race, earning over 108,000 votes.
Following his proclamation, Michael thanked voters for their support and underscored his commitment to serving the people of General Santos City. He has expressed interest in advancing youth-focused initiatives and community development.
His victory came alongside the reelection of General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, Michael’s aunt and a key figure in the PCM slate. Lorelie is married to Manny’s brother, Alberto “Bobby” Pacquiao, a former congressman. The Pacquiao family has built a strong political base in the region, holding local offices for nearly two decades.
Manny Pacquiao’s Senate comeback was hindered by criticisms over his attendance record during his previous term and controversy surrounding some campaign statements. Despite his high national profile and name recognition, he was unable to secure enough votes to reenter the Senate.
Still, Pacquiao’s public life remains active. He is scheduled to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame this June in Canastota, New York, as part of the Class of 2025 — a crowning achievement in his storied boxing career. He has also announced a comeback fight against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, scheduled for July.
