On September 9, 2011, although allowed to seek another term, Filipino eight-division world boxing champion and incumbent Representative Manny Pacquiao announced his intention to run for governor.

[3] Pacquiao became a member of the Liberal Party faction of then Manila Mayor Lito Atienza.

He then joined the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino of then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

In 2010, he ran again as representative of the lone district of Sarangani under the People's Champ Movement which is affiliated with the Nacionalista Party and won over the Chiongbian clan.

Eight-division world boxing champion and incumbent Manny Pacquiao is running unopposed.