Manny Pacquiao at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2019. Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images enator and boxing legend Manny Pacquiao just got punked. And many say he had it coming. Pacquiao thought he could have his cake and eat it too. And so, he now finds himself booted out of the ruling political party—the party he hoped would take him to the presidency. Because of his world-renowned boxing fame, Pacquiao likely assumed that he could carry out his senatorial obligations and continue boxing as well—become both part-time senator and part-time boxer. But, unfortunately, that also signals to his constituents that he is not taking his role as senator seriously. There should be no such thing as a part-time public official, especially at that high level in government. Surprisingly, most Filipinos appear nonchalant about Pacquiao being their part-time senator. However, there are consequences for those with the hubris to believe they are the exception and can do what others aren't allowed to do. And Pacquiao's comeuppance came when his equally ambitious partymates removed him as president of the PDP–Laban party. His ouster appears to have been planned well in advance. His part-time job as boxer had him out of the country training for an upcoming bout with Errol Spence Jr. That meant Pacquiao would be gone for weeks. So, a faction led by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, the vice-chairman of the party, made its move. They called for a national assembly and swiftly booted Pacquiao and Senator Koko Pimentel III from their posts as president and executive vice-chairman, respectively. Of course, none of this could have happened without the blessing of the party's chairman, President Rodrigo Duterte, who is laying the groundwork for a possible vice presidential run in 2022. This still-unfolding story will likely have many twists and turns in the coming days and weeks. However, one thing seems certain: Pacquiao cannot continue as a part-time senator if he aspires for higher office. First and foremost, he does his constituents a disservice; secondly, his prolonged absences allow his detractors to work against him while he's away. Hopefully, the Pac-Man will pick himself up, dust himself off, and figure out what's best for the country and himself. Published 7/18/2021