Rising boxing prospect Eman Bacosa Pacquiao said his ultimate goal is to become a world champion and inspire young Filipinos as he continues to build his name in the sport.
“Siyempre to become a world champion, to become a great boxer na ina-admire ng mga kabataan. From noone to someone, parang ganoon,” Pacquiao told members of the entertainment media, including LionhearTV, during his introduction as the newest ambassador of IAM Worldwide.
Despite expanding into endorsements and acting, the young athlete emphasized that professional boxing remains his top priority.
“My priority right now is professional boxing. Mga ganito ganyan (endorsement), ‘yung sa show business ay kapag wala pa akong laban,” he said.
Pacquiao also shared his experience working on an acting project for the first time, admitting that it was both exciting and challenging.
“Yes, na-enjoy ko at kinabahan ako at the same time. Ganoon pala kahirap ‘yon,” he said.
When asked how he balances boxing and showbiz commitments, he stressed the importance of focus.
“If boxing, boxing lang talaga. Focus lang ako sa boxing. Kapag matapos ‘yung mga boxing nandoon na ako sa mga endorsements. Focus. One at a time,” he explained.
Eman also opened up about the guidance he receives from his father, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.
“Ina-advice-an niya po ako minsan sa training na always stay disciplined. Kumain ng tama. Matulog sa tamang oras,” he shared.
He added that fans may see them train together again soon.
“Maybe sa next fight, kaya abangan niyo na lang po. This year, yes,” he said.
Determined to carve his own identity, Eman addressed comparisons to his father.
“They will know the difference because Manny Pacquiao is Manny Pacquiao. Eman Bacosa Pacquiao is Eman Bacosa Pacquiao,” he said. “In terms of being godly, we are both the same in faith. We are both loving.”
As part of his endorsement with IAM Worldwide, Eman worked alongside actor Piolo Pascual, who also offered advice as he navigates showbiz.
“Sinasabi ko sa kanya (kay Piolo) kinakabahan ako sa ganito-ganyan, kasi hindi talaga ako sanay sa mga ganitong bagay. Ina-advice-an niya ako na huwag ako kabahan at i-enjoy ko lang ang mga moment na ganito,” he said.
“Sabi niya (when it comes to showbiz) be thankful and enjoy lang,” he added.
Currently the face of IAM Amazing Organic Barley Gummies, Eman also maintains a disciplined lifestyle to support his boxing career.
“I eat healthy food. I exercise. I keep my body shaped all the time para rin sa mga fight. Para kapag mayroon akong fight hindi ako mahirapan mag-reduce ng timbang o magpa-condition ng katawan,” he said.
