From October 1 to 8, 2021, different TV personalities aspiring to be the nation’s future leaders flocked to the nearest Commission on Election (COMELEC) offices to file their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) and announce their political goals.
Perhaps, you have heard about them or have seen their social media posts, but for those who haven’t, take a better look at these celebrities who are set to leave the entertainment industry and walk towards a more serious path this upcoming #Halalan2022.
1. Richard Yap
Richard Yap is one of the most successful actors in today’s national television. Despite being a late bloomer in showbiz, the 54-year-old star continues to pique the interest of the public with his ageless chinito charms. He is known as “Papa Chen” in “My Binondo Girl” and got people even more hooked on “Be careful with my heart” as “Sir Chief”.
Not only is he a name in the entertainment world, but Richard Yap also makes his presence known in the business department. The star is recognized as the Cebuano businessman behind the accomplishments of “Wang Fu Restaurant”.
Unlike other celebrities, Yap is no novice in wishing for a government post. In 2019, he ran as a representative of Cebu City's 1st District in the hope of bringing his unique business experience into politics. Unfortunately, he lost against Raul del Mar, a former Cebuano congressman who served for three terms.
In an interview with Rappler, Yap admitted that he is a supporter of President Rodrigo Duterte and was vocal about his approval of the war-on-drugs campaign. For the second time, he will attempt landing a congressional seat with the same goal in mind.
2. Nash Aguas
A former actor and talent of ABS-CBN who resides in Cavite City. The 22-year-old male celebrity filed his candidacy as Councilor and took oath as part of Lakas Christian-Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party-list after mayoral aspirant Vice Mayor Denver Chua offered the position, immediately gaining a backlash from the netizens.
Indeed, some are glad for the journey of their idol. However, some cannot help but show their dismay towards the young star and say that politics is not a mere retirement plan. Despite the harsh comments from the public, Aguas still pledged to focus on bringing back the joy of tourism in his hometown.
His career bloomed when he won in ABS-CBN’s reality show, “Star Circle Quest” and was recognized as “Best Child Performer” for his role in “Shake, Rattle, and Roll IX”. After his period ended in “Goin’ Bulilit”, the actor also starred in different teen-centered movies and noon-time dramas.
Now, Aguas is ready to embrace politics and shout #unlaDCavite.
3. Michelle Gumabao
From inside the court to the Miss Universe stage, Michelle Gumabao will now try to conquer the world of politics as she joins hands with Mocha Uson, Deputy Executive Director of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), as the 2nd representative in Mothers for Change party-list, advocating for youth and women.
The volleyball star finished a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in marketing management at the De la Salle University and was consistently part of the Dean’s Lister. During her pageant days, she participated in various charity programs such as “Your 200 Pesos” fundraising drive for Pampanga’s COVID-19 relief efforts and the “Rektang Bayanihan” program for relief operations in Nueva Ecija.
Although this is her first time seeking a government seat, the beauty queen is no longer foreign to the country’s political system as she is one of the ambassadors of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), known for red-baiting government critics.
With zero doubt and fear, Gumabao chose to bear a heavier responsibility.
4. Claudine Barretto
The veteran actress also locks her eyes on becoming a Councilor of Olongapo City. Barretto is known in the world of entertainment as the “Optimum Star” after starring in different successful soap operas and heart-warming romance movies like “Milan” (2004) and “Got to Believe” (2002).
Her goal is to serve the public and promised to lead with a heart despite her lack of knowledge in governance. The 42-year-old star follows the footsteps of her grandfather, former Gov. Manuel Barretto, as she tries her luck in politics through joining the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) party and local party “Anak ng Gapo Coalition.”
5. Arci Muñoz
Arci Muñoz is not only an actress but is also the lead singer of the rock band “Philia” for more than nine years. She is known for her character in “Pasion de Amor” and became even more famous in her hit movie “Camp Sawi”.
The multi-talented star finished her Theater Arts degree at the University of the Philippines. Prior to her decision to run as Councilor of Cainta, Rizal, she also trained as a reservist for the Philippine Air Force and participated in numerous government campaigns.
Together with Aguas and PBA legend, Alvin Patrimonio, Muñoz is under the Lakas-CMD party-list and is yet to share her platforms and political plans.
Democracy gives all people the chance to lead and no one can deprive anybody of that right. But, keep in mind that not everyone is fated for politics. Being elected does not automatically mean gaining power and instead, losing one to be the servant of the mass. It should and must be #BayanMuna.
So, do your research and prepare your election kodigos.
The power is in your hands. It has always been there.
Choose smart and elect wisely!
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