Manny, Manny, & Money

I was able to attend the endorsement of the Nacionalista party this afternoon by boxing icon and national hero Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much and my original game plan in going was just to get some pictures, haha. However, I was really surprised because I think Manny Pacquiao delivered one of the most sincerest speeches I’ve ever heard coming from a celebrity politician. This afternoon, Manny Pacquiao had his moment and I’m a bit disappointed that the media didn’t really mention his speech in their post event coverage (I watched the news programs on 2 and 7 the same night).

Just some unsolicited advice for Manny P. and V.’s handlers. Have Pacquiao speak up more. It’s not a negative thing as a lot of analysts claim. His sincerity really comes out and he’s surprisingly articulate and comes across as very genuine. I personally loved the bit when he gave an analogy on a mechanic still knowing how to fix cars even after years of not being a mechanic compared to politicians who really came from poor backgrounds therefore they actually know how it is being poor and they know what needs to be done about it.

Should Pacman enter politics?
I know talking about this is kinda moot since he’s already filed his COC. However, I think it is selfish for the Filipino people if we want Pacman to be a boxer forever. Being a pugilist has a lot of side effects. We don’t really know how much damage his body and his brain has sustained over his illustrious and hard-fought career. If Pacman wants to retire into public service, then let him do so. He doesn’t really need the money (haha) so I don’t think he’ll be the corrupt sort. Also I feel that this guy has a true heart for service and that he means well. My only concern is that he’s running for Congress – a legislative position. I think he would have been a better executive since I honestly don’t see him as a strong debater in the halls of the Batasan.

Villar’s Communication Strategy: Pro-Poor
At this point I think it’s clear that the Villar com strategy is focused on a pro-poor agenda. His advertisements and endorsements are all consistent. The good thing is that they are hitting where it matters the most. Based on the recent PULSE ASIA survey, the top two factors for deciding on who Juan dela Cruz will vote for is if the candidate cares for the poor and if they have integrity. Right on the money. Let’s talk about Villar’s endorsers some more. Most of them have the same story. Efren Bata Reyes, Dolphy, Manny Pacquiao, and Manny Villar all have the “Cinderella” syndrome. They came from a very poor background and they rose up to become legends and icons in their respective fields (albeit some being controversial).

I’ve had the chance to talk to Senator Villar on several occasions already and I can honestly say that he’s been consistent since day 1. He’s always taken a pro-poor stand and I think that his campaign team is doing an excellent job in highlighting that fact in his marketing efforts. The real question now is if this will be enough for him to cut down the massive lead of Senator Noynoy Aquino. Actually, Villar’s main problem (I think) is that he’s sharing the pro-poor vote with former President Erap Estrada. With Erap out of the picture, Villar would definitely command a stronger vote with the masses and he can easily match if not surpass the numbers of Noynoy.

I honestly would love to see a Manny-Manny tri-media campaign and then see the results of the next survey. Definitely interesting material for a case study!

Related Posts:

• Villar-Aquino 1 on 1 Debate
• Joc Joc Bolante’s Coalition with Nacionalista Party?
• Face the Senate and fight Senator Villar!
• Willie Revillame to run as Vice-President in 2010?
• My complete national ballot for May 10