Manny Pacquiao's shocking views on gay couples, claims homosexuals are 'worse than animals'

Eight-time world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao dug himself a hellhole when he sparked a wave of criticism in the Philippines after describing gay couples as “worse than animals”.

His comments drew ire from gay Filipino celebrities and a rights group, as well as heated discussion, the BBC reported on Tuesday.

The former world champion, who is a member of the Philippines House of Representatives and is also running for a senate seat in May elections, was speaking to local station TV5 earlier this week for its election coverage.

In an apparent response to the controversy on Tuesday, Pacquiao posted a picture of himself with his wife on Facebook.

Local gay rights organisation and political group Ladlad condemned his remarks and issued a call to voters to boycott Mr Pacquiao.