JE C.C.
As the 2025 Philippine general election approaches, veteran actor John Arcilla has taken to X to voice a compelling argument for systemic change in the country’s political landscape.
In a post that has sparked widespread discussion, Arcilla endorses four senatorial candidates—Kiko Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, Heidi Mendoza, and Luke Espiritu—urging Filipinos to rethink their voting habits and support leaders who prioritize the nation over personal gain. His reasoning is rooted in a deep frustration with the status quo, where traditional politicians, or “trapos,” clowns, turncoats, and dynastic families continue to dominate, leaving little room for meaningful progress.
SABI SAKIN ng ilang basher/ troll: Yang dalawang iniendorso mo, antagal na naka pwesto May NAGBAGO BA?
SAGOT: 316 na CONGRESSMAN ang Binoboto natin sa pwesto at 24 na SENADOR, BAKIT NGA BA WALANG NAGBABAGO? BINAGO NA BA NATIN ANG MGA PINIPILI NATIN O paulit ulit lang tayo ng… pic.twitter.com/EiKcBStB05— John Arcilla official (@JohnArcilla) May 7, 2025
Arcilla’s argument centers on the inefficacy of a handful of honest leaders in a system overwhelmed by corruption. With 316 congressmen and 24 senators elected each cycle, he questions why change remains elusive if voters repeatedly choose the same problematic figures.
“Anong magagawa ng 2, 3 o 4 na matino?” he asks, pointing out that a few upright individuals cannot overhaul a system unless the majority of elected officials share their integrity. He challenges the electorate’s criteria, suggesting that flawed voting standards perpetuate a cycle of poverty and mismanagement, where public funds—meant for the people—end up funding lavish lifestyles of the corrupt.
The candidates Arcilla endorses are presented as a counterpoint to this entrenched political culture. Kiko Pangilinan, ballot number 51, is highlighted for his focus on agriculture, a critical sector for a nation where rural poverty remains rampant. Bam Aquino, number 5, is championed for his education advocacy, a cause resonating with Arcilla’s vision of empowering future generations. Heidi Mendoza, number 45, brings her anti-corruption credentials as a former UN official, aligning with Arcilla’s call for transparency. Lastly, Luke Espiritu, number 25, is endorsed for his human rights platform, reflecting a commitment to justice and equity.
Arcilla’s post also underscores the perspective of tax-paying, upright citizens who, despite their comfortable lives, advocate for the marginalized. He argues these endorsers understand the stakes—public funds should uplift the poor, not enrich the corrupt.
As the May 2025 election nears, Arcilla’s plea is clear: voting for Pangilinan, Aquino, Mendoza, and Espiritu isn’t just a choice—it’s a demand for a Philippines where integrity, not dynasty, shapes the future.
