The Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao may be up for more challenges than just eyeing a return to the ring next year. Will boxing's "Pacman" run for a Senate seat in the 2016 Philippine elections?

Pacquiao, who is a former eight-time division champion in his chosen sport, also serves as a Sarangani representative in his home country, the Republic of the Philippines. But, it seems that he has plans to climb to a higher position. In July 2014, The United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) stated that Pacquiao could be in their list of senatorial candidate in the national elections to be held in 2016.

UNA Secretary General and Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco said Pacquiao may be included in their roster if he will confirm his commitment to secure a national post role. Tiangco said that if Pacquiao decides to run, the UNA would "like to have him," GMA Network reported. The country's Vice President and UNA's founder, Jejomar Binay, who intends to run for President, has also declared that he will personally include Pacquiao in "his senatorial lineup for 2016" since "Pacman" is "qualified to run for the Senate."

Pacquiao's wife, Jinkee, the current Vice Governor of Sarangani province, was asked by the news network in March if there's a possibility that "Pacman" will run for a Senatorial position next year. Jinkee was quick to confirm that there's a great chance of it happening.

Just recently, "Pacman" himself addressed media queries about his possible inclusion in the Senatorial race.

"Frankly from scale 1 to 100, it's still 50-50 in my chances to run for senator in 2016 although I must admit I have plans... but it will all depend on the plans and wishes of our creator for me," Pacquiao told The Phippine Star.

Pacman's Boxing Career

One concern that may have an impact on his political move is his desire to come back to the boxing ring next year.

"Pacman," who lost via a unanimous decision against Mayweather on May 2, at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, is said to be returning in 2016. Citing Viva.co.id, an Indonesian website, Boxing Scene quoted Pacquiao as saying, "I'm ready to fight, next year."

However, before he returns to boxing, he must also reach out to Top Rank CEO Bob Arum who expressed his disappointment to Pacquiao over the boxer's "unprofessional acts," reported ABS-CBN News.

The Filipino icon is said to be neglecting his rehabilitation schedule for his torn rotator cuff injury, which he sustained while training for his bout against Mayweather.

"I'm not even thinking about a next fight for Manny unless he comes over [to the U.S] and does his rehab," Arum told Boxing Scene.

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