Manny Pacquiao criticized over anti-gay statement, loses deal with Nike

Manny Pacquiao criticized over anti-gay statement, loses deal with Nike

In a video posted by TV5, Rep. Manny Pacquiao released a statement that generated anger all over the Philippines and worldwide. “He said in his speech that same sex relationships are worse than animals”.

Manny said “It’s common sense, do you see animals mating with the same sex? Animals are better because they can distinguish male from female. If men mate with men and women mate with women they are worse than animals.”

Singer-songwriter Aiza Seguerra, who recently got married to her longtime girlfriend, asked on voters to boycott Manny, who is running for senator in the coming elections.

Gay comedian, Vice Ganda posted #PrayForMannyPacquiao to his 6.7 million followers on twitter. The comedian also said “Some people think they can judge people like God just because they’ve attended a prayer meeting and read the Bible. The senate needs experts on politics and law, not blind prophets.”

Manny posted a response through instagram saying “I rather obey the Lord’s command than obeying the desire of the flesh. I’m not condemning anyone, but I’m just telling the truth of what the Bible says.”

He also added an apology – “I’m sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals. Please forgive me for those I’ve hurt. I still stand on my belief that I’m against same sex marriage because of what the Bible says, but I’m not condemning LGBT. I love you all with the love of the Lord. God bless you all and I’m praying for you.”

As a result of Manny’s remarks, Nike terminated their contract with Manny and issued this statement: “We find Manny Pacquiao’s comments abhorrent.”

“Nike strongly opposes discrimination of any kind and has a long history of supporting and standing up for the rights of the LGBT community” said the sportswear company.

“We no longer have a relationship with Manny Pacquiao” they added.