President of the Philippines Benigno Aquino III has weighed in on the career and future fights of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.

The Philippine Star has reported that the head of state has called on the 36-year-old fighter to retire from fighting to minimize the risk of further health problems.

While the President acknowledges all the glory, honor and pride Pacquiao has brought to the Philippines, Aquino believes that the Filipino champ needs to stop while he is ahead.

"One of the most tragic perhaps was when I saw (Ali) lighting the Olympic torch with his hand shaking," quoted the publication of Aquino over Bombo Radyo Philippines.

He goes on to comment on the possibility of a rematch by calling on Pacman's fan base to consider that Pacquiao's glory days won't last forever. He added, "If we will push him (and say) that 'No, there should be a rematch,' 'No, you have to take a gamble again,' I think we will not be showing debt of gratitude to the person."

The boxer and politician paid a courtesy visit to the President at the Malacañang Palace on Wednesday where he told Aquino he would be taking a break to give himself time to recover from the shoulder injury he sustained prior to this fight with the undefeated American boxer, Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Manny Hints at Retirement

As the former world champion recovers from his torn right rotator cuff surgery -- estimated to take about six months -- BBC Sport reports that Pacquiao has said his retirement is approaching.

"I will focus on healing my shoulder. After that, I will announce continuing my career or retirement," quoted BBC of the fighter. "I'm not saying I am going to retire, but it's near. I'm already 36, turning 37 this December."

The match up held last May 2, dubbed as "The Fight of the Century," saw Mayweather, 37, win via unanimous decision. Prior to the fight, Pacquiao allegedly failed to notify the Nevada Athletic Commission of his pre-existing condition and is now under investigation for perjury.

In addition, lawsuits have been filed against Pacquiao by people, who claimed they were deceived with Pacquiao's alleged non-disclosure of his injury.

With regards to the fight results, the Filipino asserts he won the face off by a narrow margin but has accepted the decision that was handed down.

"I reviewed the fight and kept score. I won by two points, but a decision has been made and we have to accept it," said Pacquiao.