Everyone's been gearing up for the election szn in the Philippines. Some celebrities aren't just talking about it but actually taking part in it as candidates—and the Internet has a lot to say.
In case you missed it, there are a couple of celebrities who welcomed the month of October by already filing their Certificates of Candidacy (COC). But one thing that we're (more) curious about is how the SO's of these celebrities have shown their support for their beaus, early into the elections season.
Filipino Celebrities Vying To Be Politicians
1. Luis Manzano
TV host and personality Luis Manzano publicly declared his plans to run for Vice Governor in the province of Batangas. He made the big announcement together with his mother, Vilma Santos-Recto, and his sibling Ryan Christian Santos-Recto. Both are running for positions in Batangas, with Vilma making her political comeback for Batangas Governor, and Ryan as a candidate for Councilor in the province.
Luis was joined by his loving wife, Jessy Mendiola, who is poised to actively participate in the campaign period with the whole Manzano-Santos-Recto family. Wearing their campaign color, red, the couple was all smiles as Luis filed for candidacy. This is the first time that the famous TV host is taking part in politics even after decades of doing showbiz.
In addition, Luis' good friend Alex Gonzaga's husband, Mikee Morada is part of Luis' political slate. Mikee is running for Vice Mayor of Lipa, Batangas.
2. Marco Gumabao
Also included in the list of celebrities aiming to prove themselves as a public servant is Marco Gumabao. The 30-year-old actor filed candidacy to be a congressman in the fourth district of Camarines Sur, which is deemed to be the largest province in the Bicol region.
Marco prides himself as someone who comes from a family of public servants. He posted on Instagram saying, "Today marks a new journey," pertaining to his bout to be be elected as a congressman. He continued, "Buo ang loob ko na lumaban para sa pagbabagong matagal nang inaasam, pagbabagong matagal na dapat pinaramdam sa Partido."
In his post, he included a photo with his girlfriend, Cristine Reyes. The couple has been publicly dating for over a year now and to show her support, Cristine posed together with Marco holding his COC. Marco also uploaded an Instagram Story expressing appreciation for his GF. He shared a selfie with Cristine and captioned it with, "Lovey made it [insert heart emoji]."
3. Enzo Pineda
Aside from Marco, another actor is trying to make a name as a politician soon. Enzo Pineda is running for councilor in Quezon City's fifth district. His longtime girlfriend Michelle Vito showed support for Enzo by accompanying him during the filing, along with Enzo's mother. Michelle and Enzo have been publicly together since 2020.
ICYDK, the 34-year-old actor has been a Philippine Marine reservist. He completed his training last September 2021, which he shared on Instagram. Enzo expressed his happiness in his post which read, "By far this is one of the toughest challenges I've ever done in my life. I thank God for giving me and my batchmates the strength and resilience to finish the course. I also thank my family for their support and for always inspiring me to become better. I'm excited for the new adventures that this path awaits me. SSgt Pineda reporting for duty."
4. Ion Perez
Meanwhile, in Tarlac, another celebrity is making a run for politics, too. The It's Showtime host and Vice Ganda's partner Ion Perez also filed for candidacy as councilor in Concepcion, Tarlac. Vice Ganda is yet to publicize her reaction to her partner running for office.
How the public reacted to celebrities vying to be politicians
Celebrity-politicians aren't new in the Philippines. And with how it's been a recurring phenomenon in Philippine politics, Filipinos couldn't help but express their sentiments on social media.
On Instagram, specifically on Luis' IG posts, some of his followers have expressed their support for the TV personality. It appears that some Batangas residents have already put a bit of trust in Luis. One follower already called him "Vice Gov."
Over on X (formerly Twitter), there are online citizens who conveyed their dismay upon hearing that a number of celebrities will be entering politics. One concerned citizen posted, "Idk what's happening with the politics in the PH bc why is there MORE celebrities filing for candidacy than actual politicians."
Another said, "Why are 'influencers' and artists suddenly running for government positions? What qualifications do they even have? Anong gagawin nila kapag nanalo sila? Make [content]?"
