Ex-solon on possible jousts with … everyone

FORMER Sen. Richard Gordon is the host of the public affairs show “Duelo” on Aksyon 41, TV5’s 24-hour news and sports channel. We recently chatted with him and he gamely talked about possible “duels” with the likes of President Aquino, his sister Kris, TV5 chair Manny Pangilinan and Manny Pacquiao.

What would a duel with President Aquino be like?

I’d ask him, “What have you learned in the presidency so far?”

With Kris Aquino?

I’d ask her, “Who are you really?” When you’re the daughter of the [former] President, there are expectations whether you like it or not, especially in a country that looks at titles or how much money or influence you have. She’s supposed to be very bright so she should let her real self come out.

And with Manny Pangilinan?

He was my classmate. Tahimik ’yan even in school. I’d ask him, “What did you do to get to the top?”

What would you ask boxing champ Manny Pacquiao?

That would be fun. When not many people minded Manny, I was the one who welcomed him at the airport. I could tell Manny frankly, “Mag-iingat ka d’yan sa mga kasama mo ngayon.” Three years ago, I told him, “I heard you’re into gambling. Sayang ang pera mo. Akala ko ba matalino ka?”

What took you so long to do TV?

I was waiting for offers. Nahihiya naman akong magsabing kunin n’yo ako. I’ve never looked for a job. [I like things] on my own terms.

Were there previous offers?

Yes, from two other stations. I had somebody close to me figure out which offer was better. I agreed to do “Duelo” because I thought TV5 was really putting an effort at competing and being different.

Was the talent fee irresistible?

It’s enough for gasoline and a few T-shirts. I consider it a starting price (laughs). The point is, I’m enjoying the show.

You’re also on radio (he hosts “Aksyon Solusyon” on Radyo 5 92.3 FM).
What about the movies?

I was in “Goodbye America,” where I played myself. Hollywood actor Michael York wrote me a long letter about it, saying he liked how I stood my ground. I had [an erroneous] script changed.

How tight is your schedule?

I have four hours of sleep every day. I just take advantage of the time I have. I relax with my grandchildren—eight boys and three girls. Kate (his wife) and I hardly watch movies anymore. I’d rather read a good book. I tell my kids and grandkids: “He who reads, leads.”

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Looking at beautiful women. I’m still a man with passion. (Laughs.)

Do you have a favorite local actress?

Marian Rivera looks good. Ruffa Gutierrez and Alice Dixson also look good. Susan Roces is a very nice lady.

“Duelo” airs weeknights, 7:30 p.m.