Pacquiao tapped to lead anti-poverty commission, Marcos cites compassion

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Manny Pacquiao, the internationally renowned boxer and former senator, to lead the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), the presidential palace announced Wednesday. Malacañang said Pacquiao's demonstrated compassion and genuine commitment to assisting disadvantaged Filipinos made him the right choice for the position.

"We know that former Senator Manny Pacquiao has had firsthand experience interacting with many of our fellow Filipinos from all walks of life," Malacañang said in a statement regarding the appointment. Palace officials emphasized that Pacquiao's background and direct engagement with communities across the nation positioned him well to address poverty-related challenges.

Pacquiao's career outside the boxing ring has included legislative work and various philanthropic initiatives focused on assisting low-income families and communities. His appointment to the NAPC comes as the administration continues efforts to implement its poverty reduction programs and initiatives.

The National Anti-Poverty Commission serves as the government's main coordinating body for anti-poverty strategies and poverty alleviation programs across the country. The agency works with various government departments and civil society organizations to formulate and monitor policies aimed at reducing poverty rates.