That would happen in 2016 if the boxing king’s future plans do not go awry and he hangs up his gloves   to make a bid for  a position higher than his present congressional post.

Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao yesterday told a radio interview he is considering retiring from boxing and plans to run for vice president in the 2016 national elections.

“Come 2016, I am going to run for vice  president. No more boxing at that time,” Pacquiao said.

He is turning 34 in December and by 2016 will be 39.

But before seeking the second highest post in the government, Pacquiao said he will first take a crack at the Sarangani gubernatorial seat in 2013.

Earlier reports said that Pacquiao is aiming for a senatorial seat in 2013.

At present, Pacquiao is not attending the budget deliberation in the House of Representatives as he is busy promoting his next fight against Mexican boxer Juan Manuel Marquez in November.

Next week, Pacquiao will begin his training for the big fight that is why he will be absent from the House until it adjourns on October 14.

Pacquiao‘s first attempt in politics was when he ran for congressman of General Santos City in 2004 but lost to veteran politician Darlene Antonino-Custodio.

The Pacman has every right to run for higher office, Palace officials said.

Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Secretary Ricky Carandang said every one has a right to run for higher office.

Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs  Ronald Llamas also reacted to news that Pacquiao is planning to run for vice president in the 2016 elections.

“It is a testament to our democracy that Manny Pacquiao who grew up poor and worked hard to succeed can aspire to the second highest office,” Carandang said.

Llamas agreed with Carandang. “Karapatan n’ya kung gusto niyang tumakbo bagama’t hindi pa ito napag-uusapan sa Palasyo,” he said.

The Commission on Elections however threw cold water on Pacquiao’s purported ambition.

Comelec chief Sixto Brillantes Jr. told GMA7 the world champ would not be eligible to run for the second highest elective post in the 2016 elections because of the constitutional provision that a candidate must at least be 40 years old on election day before he or she can run for vice president.

Born on Dec. 17, 1978, Pacquiao will only be 37 years old during the elections in May 2016.  

With EMontano