By Edward Chaykovsky

According to GMA News, Manny Pacquiao has come out politically swinging in his new role as a senator in the Philippines. Pacquiao will be pushing for the death penalty to be carried out by hanging.

He believes death by hanging is more "humane" not only for the criminal being executed but for the medical personnel who are forced to assist in carrying out the death sentence despite their personal beliefs and convictions.

"For me the death penalty should be by hanging. The law should also state that doctors are not allowed to kill people," Pacquiao told reporters when asked for his opinion on the subject.

Pacquiao also told reporters that he feels the death penalty should be imposed on crimes such as rape with murder, drug trafficking, kidnapping, and robbery with murder.

The eight division world champion retired from the sport of boxing in April, after winning a twelve round decision over Timothy Bradley at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao said his main motivation to retire was to pursue a full-time career in politics back home. He secured a senatorial seat in the May elections.

In recent weeks there have been discussions of a potential comeback in the fall. His promoter, Bob Arum of Top Rank, reserved a date of October 15th at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

While the date and venue have been set aside, there is still no confirmation that Pacquiao will be capable of returning this year. His busy schedule as a senator may prevent him from being able to hold an adequate training camp or participate in promotional functions that are required for the event.