Emman Pacquiao says boxing remains priority despite acting stint

Metro Manila, Philippines –  Emman Bacosa Pacquiao, who is beginning to make his mark in boxing, says his ultimate goal is to become a world champion and inspire young Filipinos.

“Syempre to become a world champion, to become a great boxer na ina-admire ng mga kabataan. From no one to someone, parang ganoon,” the son of boxing champ Manny Pacquiao told reporters on Thursday, March 19.

[Translation: Of course, to become a world champion, to become a great boxer admired by the youth. From no one to someone.]

Despite branching into acting and endorsements, Pacquiao said he is focused on the sport.

 “My priority right now is professional boxing. Mga ganito ganyan, ‘yung sa show business ay kapag wala pa akong laban,” he said.

[Translation: These kinds of things, like show business, I do when I don’t have a fight.]

Pacquiao recently completed his first acting project and admitted it came with challenges. 

“Na-enjoy ko at kinabahan ako at the same time… ganoon pala kahirap ‘yon,” he said. 

[Translation: I enjoyed it and felt nervous at the same time… I didn’t realize it was that difficult.]

Asked how he balances boxing and showbiz, Pacquiao said it’s about focus.

“If boxing, boxing lang talaga. Focus lang ako sa boxing… one at a time,” he said.

[Translation: If it’s boxing, I focus only on boxing… one at a time.]

The young athlete also spoke about carving his own identity while carrying a well-known name in the sport. The younger Pacquiao said people will know the difference because Manny Pacquiao is Manny Pacquiao. Emman Bacosa Pacquiao is Emman Bacosa Pacquiao.

He added that his father continues to guide him, particularly in discipline. 

“Ina-advice-an niya po ako… always stay disciplined, kumain ng tama, matulog sa tamang oras,” he shared.

[Translation: He advises me… always stay disciplined, eat properly, and sleep at the right time.]

Pacquiao said he may train again with his father as early as his next fight this year.

“Maybe sa next fight… abangan niyo na lang po [wait for me]. This year, yes,” he said.

For now, he is keeping his focus on training and family life. 

Pacquiao was recently introduced as an ambassador of network marketing group IAM Worldwide, marking one of his growing endorsements as he builds his profile outside the ring.

While he continues to explore opportunities beyond boxing, Pacquiao said he is taking things step by step and staying grounded.

“Be thankful and enjoy lang [Just enjoy],” he said.