Image Source: PCIJ.org
The intersection of celebrity and politics in the Philippines is nothing new. The phenomenon of celebrity politicians—actors, athletes, and other public figures who go from the big screen or stage to the corridors of power—has become a defining aspect of the country’s democratic system. Celebrity politics has had a significant impact on the Philippine political landscape, from former President Joseph Estrada, an action star, to Senator Manny Pacquiao, a boxing hero, and most recently, actor Robin Padilla’s landslide victory. While this feature is not specific to the Philippines, it has a significant influence on democracy and government. At first look, it may seem to be a positive development since the democratic system allows anybody, regardless of background, to run for office, making it appear open and inclusive. However, underneath the surface there is a more alarming reality—a rising dependence on popularity over competence, image over substance, and charisma over policy expertise.
Manny Pacquiao, The Boxer-Turned-Politician.
Manny Pacquiao is a great example of a celebrity politician who used his famous status to enter politics. Pacquiao’s rags-to-riches journey, which earned him the title as one of the best boxers of all time, inspired millions of Filipinos. His humble beginnings, along with his achievements on the international arena, made him a symbol of hope and resilience. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 to represent the province of Sarangani, and he subsequently gained a Senate seat in 2016. Pacquiao’s political career was constructed upon his reputation as a man of the people, which disguised his lack of political experience and policy expertise.
Robin Padilla, The Action Star Senator.
Similarly, Robin Padilla, an action star and self-proclaimed “Bad Boy of Philippine Movies,” became a senator in 2022. Padilla received the most votes of any candidate in the 2022 senatorial elections, with more than 26 million. Despite having no political experience, his well-known recognition and charismatic persona helped him win the most votes in the Senate campaign. Padilla’s legislative agenda includes grandiose goals such as amending the 1987 Constitution to establish federalism. While his proposals may address serious challenges in Philippine governance, he has been widely criticized for lacking the necessary competence and experience to navigate such complex amendments.
Celebrity Politics’ Impact on Democracy
In an ideal democracy, people choose leaders based on their policies, record, and competence to govern. However, in the Philippines, elections have become more like popularity contests, with name recognition and media exposure outweighing experience and expertise. Celebrities have a distinct edge under these circumstances. Their presence in television, movies, or sports provides them with unique access to large audiences, fostering a strong feeling of familiarity and confidence among voters. Unlike typical politicians, who must gain grassroots support, celebrities enter the political arena with an established fan following ready to convert popularity into votes. Focusing on popularity rather than political competence could undermine leadership quality.
Manny Pacquiao, for example, had mixed evaluations during his term as legislator. While he advocated for some issues, such as sports development and anti-poverty initiatives, his legislative record was criticized for being lackluster. His frequent absences from Congress strengthened the idea that he was not entirely devoted to his position as a public servant. Similarly, Robin Padilla’s lack of political experience has generated concerns about his capacity to effectively navigate complexities of legislation and government. This was apparent during the 2024 hearing regarding his comments about women and “sexual rights.” Throughout the session, it was evident that he lacked knowledge of existing laws and their probable applications to various issues.
Moreover, the perpetuation of political dynasties is yet another consequence of celebrity politics. The Philippines is already dealing with entrenched family rule, in which power is concentrated within a handful of elite families. Because of how widely popular they are, celebrities may be used as pawns to further establish political dynasties, which in turn help families to retain power. For example, actor Robin Padilla used his pro-Duterte position and celebrity status to get a Senate seat in 2022. Despite his lack of legislative experience, his strongman image and close links to the Duterte government helped him win an impressive number of votes. His election highlights a larger issue—celebrity candidates often act as extensions of existing political power structures, enabling governing elites to retain power and influence by leveraging well-known individuals.Instead of going up against existing political clans, many celebrities end up supporting them. Furthermore, celebrity politicians’ dominance may push out competent candidates who do not have the same degree of name recognition or media exposure. As a result, candidates who are substantially more competent and progressive will find it more difficult to get traction. This phenomenon contributes to democratic erosion, concentrating power in a few hands and restricting increased political participation and representation.
The Path Ahead
Addressing the challenges of celebrity politics requires a thorough approach that looks into the fundamental factors that fuel this phenomenon. First, we must acknowledge the critical need for improved and intensified political education and civic engagement. It is critical for Filipinos to be prepared to make informed choices based on a candidate’s credentials, platform, and track record, rather than being misled by simple popularity or media presence. A unified effort is necessary and crucial—civil society, the media, and educational institutions must work together to promote critical thinking and democratic principles. As we approach the 2025 midterm elections, it is becoming evident that celebrities and well-known personalities are not just making headlines but also gaining traction in public opinion surveys. Their ability to obtain seats in government is worth discussing. Consider Willie Revillame, who has made significant strides in the OCTA senatorial poll and is presently ranked eleventh. He has made it clear that he would prioritize platforms only after securing a seat. This poses a serious danger to the future of our country, particularly if these kinds of candidates, who lack a well-defined platform and strategy, continue to secure a seat in the Senate. Filipinos, it’s time to wake up with the fact that we should value experience and expertise more highly than superficial stardom.
Additionally, it is imperative that we implement electoral reforms to establish a more equitable political landscape, which will allow highly qualified and competitive candidates to compete fairly in elections. Implementing policies such as campaign finance reform and stricter rules on political advertising may pave the way for greater equality by ensuring that candidates from underprivileged backgrounds have the chance to be heard. Furthermore, it is critical that we create stronger institutions and systems to enforce accountability. We must prioritize strengthening our judiciary, empowering anti-corruption offices, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to holding our elected officials to the highest levels of transparency and accountability. The absence of these essential safeguards will only serve to perpetuate the cycle of celebrity politics and further erode our democracy, thereby placing the future of our country in jeopardy.
Out of all the topics I knew would be written about Philippine democracy, I looked forward to this the most, as I believe that it is truly a serious concern that needs to be addressed today. It may not be an issue distinct solely to the Philippines, but I think that the influence and the damage it does to our democracy are particularly significant. I certainly agree with you that the elections in our country have become more like popularity contests, with name recognition and media exposure being the main standards for choosing representatives instead of experience and expertise. Nowadays, those who appear often on television and social media are the ones who gain seats in the government. Views and exposure translate into votes.
The celebrities turned politicians you mentioned, such as Manny Pacquiao and Robin Padilla, are classic examples of those who succeeded in this path. I think it is also important to mention that there are a lot of celebrities running for local positions. You also mentioned in the article that celebrities may be used as pawns to further establish political dynasties, which in turn help families to retain power. However, today, not only are celebrities used as pawns by political dynasties, but they themselves aim to establish dynasties in their respective towns as well. One good example from this year’s elections is Vilma Santos’ family in Batangas. Santos is running for Governor again in Batangas while her son, Luis Manzano, is running for a governmental position for the first time as his mother’s Vice Governor. Although Luis lost the elections, it’s worth noting how these celebrities’ families are becoming braver to establish their names not just on show business but also in politics.