VELASQUEZ-ALCASID. You can serve the public without going into politics.
The national elections are just 10 months away—and, despite their unconvincing demurrals, some show biz stars are getting ready to step up to the political plate, ready to charm their way into public office.
Many of them are well-liked for the “manufactured” image that their handlers have created, perpetuated further by the appealing celluloid heroes they portray.
Unfortunately, as it is in the movies, not every story has a Happily Ever After twist. Should stars go into politics—or is it better for them to stick to their day jobs? We asked some celebrities to weigh in on the issue:
Ryan Agoncillo: First, ask yourself why you want to join politics—and come up with honest answers: Do you want to serve? What can you do? Is it money you want? Whether you’re a doctor, engineer or actor is beside the point, kasi marami ding instances na nagagamit sa maganda ang pagiging celebrity.
On the other hand, there are cautionary stories that don’t end well. Whatever your background is, if your intention isn’t noble, your political bid will probably end ignominiously!
Regine Velasquez-Alcasid: Ogie (Alcasid, her husband) once showed interest in politics. He asked me, “What if I run for office?” I wasn’t really for it, but I told him that if that was what he wanted, I was ready to support him. It can’t be avoided, because his family is in politics.
Then, he realized that it really wasn’t for him. It was a relief, because hindi ko nakikita sa buhay namin ang politics—kasi if your husband is a politician, kasama ka, e. He likes public service and supports many advocacies (he is the president of the Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit)—but, being a politician, not so much. I see it as God’s intervention—Ogie can serve the public by promoting and pushing for his advocacies—for now.
Dennis Trillo: If you have experience and the ability to serve, why not? But, in general, I’m not in favor of actors going into politics. Lalo na kung puro pa-cute ka lang—never mind, baka magnakaw ka lang! Voters have to choose wisely.