Pacquiao bares recent negative drug tests

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 23)— Presidential aspirant Senator Manny Pacquiao tested negative in two recent drug tests this year, his camp revealed on Tuesday.

The tests were conducted in July and September by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association, Pacquiao’s camp said in a statement.

The boxer-turned-lawmaker returned to the ring for a final time in August, when he suffered a unanimous decision loss to Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugas.

“The test covers a wide range of performance enhancing drugs that include anabolic agents like steroids and all stimulants like cocaine and metamphetamin,” Pacquiao’s camp said.

“In both tests, Pacquiao was found negative of any of the substances prohibited by the World Boxing Council.”

Athletes competing in international competitions are required to undergo the anti-doping test to ensure that they are not using any substance to improve their performance.

Last week, President Rodrigo Duterte claimed a presidential candidate was into cocaine. Pacquiao and other hopefuls said they were willing to undergo drug tests ahead of the polls if needed.

Presidential aspirants Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Senator Ping Lacson also recently took drug tests, with their camps announcing negative results.