He led the Philippine team in the program.
During the fifth episode of the Netflix reality show Physical: Asia, world-renowned boxer Manny Pacquiao made an announcement regarding his participation in the series.
According to the only eight division world champion in boxing history, he was leaving his post as the team leader of the Philippine team to focus on other “obligations” that he had at the time of filming.
He said in a portion of the show, “Gusto kong magpaumanhin na kailangan kong bumalik sa bansa ko kasi may obligation ako for the country.”
While it was not directly mentioned, he pertained to his Senatorial bid in the recent 2025 national and local elections in May.
The boxing champ then apologized to his team and told, “I really wanted to win the challenge and I’m just wondering what we’re gonna do for the next challenge.”
Pacquiao added, “I’m happy to be part of this season. As team captain, proud ako na i-represent ang Pilipinas. Ang Team Philippines ay hard warriors. Ang mga Pilipino may kakayahan na magtagumpay…“
The squad is composed of members led by weightlifter and powerlifter Ray Jefferson Querubin, crossfit athlete Lara Lorraine Deang Liwanag, and national athletes Mark Mugen, Justin Coveney and Robyn Lauren Brown.
Coveney has since been named as the new team leader, while CrossFit athlete Justin Hernandez is the new addition to the group.