Manny Pacquiao not afraid of Islamic militant group kidnapping threat
Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao pushed through with his campaigns even though he was said to be one of those reportedly targeted by Abu Sayyaf, the Filipino militant group that recently beheaded Canadian John Ridsdel.
Pacquiao went to a province south of Manila on Thursday, April 28 and continued to engage the people despite the threat. Although he noticeably had a few more security personnel now than before, Pacquiao went through the crowds and took selfies with the people.
However, he admitted he was "alarmed" by the news.
President Benigno Aquino III disclosed the information on Wednesday, saying he learned that the militant group has been targeting him together with Cong. Pacquiao and Kris Aquino, the president's sister who is a famous TV personality, CNN Philippines reported.
"Threats against my own life have been investigated," Aquino said in a statement. "I credit our security services for putting these threats to bed with both professionalism and discretion."
Pacquiao expressed alarm by the president's announcement.
"I was alarmed when he announced...the Abu Sayyaf wanted to kidnap me. I'm surprised because all Filipinos are my friends. I love them, especially the Muslims," he said at a local press conference.
He was also surprised the president disclosed it to the press before informing him personally.
"If it came from an intelligence report, it should have been kept secret and need not be announced. And why just now? We have to study this," Pacquiao said.
Even though the news surprised him, Pacquiao said he doubts that the Muslim group is really planning to kidnap him, especially when he has established a good relationship with them and has provided them support and livelihood.
However, the boxing legend maintained that he will not take the news lightly. He has set up extra security measures for his wife and children, who are currently in his hometown in southern Philippines.
"We asked for security, protection for my kids, my family to make sure they are safe, especially as I'm not there right now," he said.
Pacquiao, who has openly professed to be a follower of Jesus, said he is not worried about himself.
"I live my life like every day is the last so I have no fear. God is with me," he said.
