I have never hidden the fact that I can’t stand Manny Pacquiao.

He is anti-reproductive health and anti-women, which is enough reason for me to dislike him.

But he also makes a mockery of the government positions he has held by being an absentee politician. Last year, as Congressman, he only came to work 4 days out of the entire year, and he passed not one single bill. He has made statements that indicate he doesn’t really understand what Congress does.

Many of the days that he did not work were due to the fact that he was training in the United States for boxing matches. Another way that he disrespects Filipinos – by holding two jobs when the constitution clearly says that government officials should not have more than one job. Technically he’s also a pro basketball player and product endorser so he actually holds four positions. No wonder he has no time for Congress.

Today he gave me yet another reason not to support him.

In a recent interview, Manny Pacquiao explained his stand against couples in same-sex unions. He stated that couples in same-sex marriages were, “mas masahol pa sa hayop (worse than animals).”  Really, Congressman?

I completely understand that many people do not support same-sex marriage. He could have said that because of his faith, he believes that it is not right, and left it at that. But instead he chose to pass judgment on a huge group of diverse people, and say they are worse than animals.

People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) already face so much hardship and stigma. Statements like these from elected officials worsen how other people view and treat them. After US Republican Donald Trump badmouthed immigrants, there was a rash of hate attacks on immigrants across the country. I wouldn’t be surprised if some Filipinos use Pacquiao’s statements to verbally and physically abuse members of the LGBT community.

Spewing this kind of cruel and hateful speech is unbecoming of an elected leader, not to mention unbecoming of someone who purports to be a Christian but seems to have forgotten that Jesus commanded Christians to love. But then again Manny only seems to remember Christian morals when it comes to other people’s lives.

If you support Manny Pacquiao because you’re proud of what a great athlete he is, then by all means, watch his fights. But Manny Pacquiao is a terrible politician and Filipinos deserve better. This is why I will not be voting for Manny Pacquiao for Senator.