MANILA, Philippines – Boxer-turned-senator Manny Pacquiao reiterated that he will try his best to keep his promise to refrain from absenteeism, even as he also plans to make a boxing comeback later this year.

When he was elected to the Senate in May, Pacquiao said he will put his full focus on his new job after being heavily criticized for his poor attendance record during his two terms as a congressman.

(FULL STORY: Pacquiao promises full focus on Senate duties)

Asked on Wednesday night if he intends to keep his promise that he will no longer be a habitual absentee, Pacquiao said: "Sinisikap natin 'yan."

"Dahil unang-una," Pacquiao added, "wala namang magbabawal sa akin na mag-absent ako."

"Pero ang goal ko talaga ay magampanan ang trabaho ko," he added.

Pacquiao admits he was challenged by those who had criticized his record as a congressman and plans to use this as motivation.

"I am challenged doon sa nag-criticize sa akin," he said. "So nagpapasalamat ako sa nag-criticize sa akin. Parang na-challenge ako."

"Nakaya ko ngang maging champion sa boxing dahil sa disiplina ko, 'yan pa kaya na hindi ako mabubugbog?" he pointed out.

Pacquiao, who watched Mahindra's upset of San Miguel Beer on Wednesday evening, said he will make sure that his comeback fight – tentatively scheduled for November 5 –will not get in the way of his Senate duties.

"I want to make sure na 'yung bakasyon ng session, matapat doon, so October hanggang November," he said.

The "Pacman" had previously asked former Senate President Franklin Drilon if he can still go back to the ring, and was advised to schedule his upcoming fight during the break at the Senate.

"His commitment is that he will not neglect his duties as a Senator, and I take his word for that," Drilon said.

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