MANILA, Philippines ? Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez said he has tapped boxing champion Manny Pacquiao as his ?special assistant? on ?intelligence matters.?

Gonzalez said Pacquiao?s position was ?honorary? and that the ring idol would not receive compensation.

"No salary. It is an honorary position in honor of his achievement. He can help the Department of Justice in any manner he can, I can ask him for information as well," Gonzalez said in a phone interview on Monday.

Earlier Monday, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she appointed Pacquiao as ?ambassador for peace and understanding.?

As justice secretary Gonzalez said had the authority to appoint confidential agents, therefore, Pacquiao's appointment was within his powers.

Gonzalez said Pacquiao was also recently appointed as head of the environment department?s Task Force Kalikasan (Nature).

"There is nothing wrong with that," the justice chief said.