Manny Pacquiao announces that he will hang up his gloves heading to the 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines

(CNN) – Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao announced on Wednesday that he will step down from the ring after announcing earlier this month that he planned to run in the 2022 presidential election.

In a video announcement posted on his Facebook page, Pacquiao said, “Today I announce my retirement,” adding, “Boxing has always been my passion … to bring fame and honor to my country every time I step into the ring.” .

“I will never forget what I did and accomplished in my life … I just heard the final chime,” Pacquiao said.

Pacquiao thanked his fans and loved ones, saying, “Please accept my deepest thanks.”

Pacquiao officially announced on September 19 that he will accept the presidential candidacy for the 2022 elections in the Philippines.

Pacquiao, currently a senator, was nominated as a candidate by his PDP-Laban party during the group’s national assembly.