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Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who is running for a Senate seat, has cast his vote in his home turf of southern Sarangani province. Voter preference surveys put him near the top of the senatorial candidates, recovering from an earlier drop in his ratings due to his remarks about same-sex marriage.
The Bible-quoting Pacquiao said in February that people in same-sex relations are “worse than animals.” He apologized to people hurt by his comments but made clear he opposed same-sex marriage.
READ: Pacquiao likens gays to animals, draws flak
He is the Philippines’ most famous athlete and among the wealthiest sports celebrities in the world. He has represented Sarangani province in the House of Representatives since May 2010.
The 37-year-old called on Filipinos to unite and accept the election results.
“Whoever wins, then respect it because that’s the people’s choice,” he told local network TV5. “It’s impossible for a nation to effect change if it is not united.”
Pacquiao is running under the ticket of Vice President Jejomar Binay but he has also been endorsed by Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, the front-runner in the presidential race.
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