Television host Willie Revillame has officially thrown his hat into the political ring, announcing his intention to run for a senatorial position in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
The revelation came during a prayer rally held in Davao City on January 28, where Willie disclosed that he had previously been approached by former President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Bong Go to join the senatorial lineup of their political party.
Recounting the meeting, Willie shared that the offer was made approximately two years ago, around March, following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, due to contractual commitments tied to his show ‘Wowowin’ on GMA Network, he had to politely decline the proposal.
“Last March, two years ago after ng COVID-19 (pandemic), pinatawag po ako ni Sen. Bong Go at ng mahal na pangulo [Rodrigo Duterte] at ako ay kinausap nila sa Malacañang. ‘Yun po yung pinapatakbo niya ako bilang senator. During that time, meron akong programa sa GMA, ‘yung Wowowin,” Willie explained.
During the conversation, Willie conveyed his situation, stating, “Sabi ko, ‘Mahal na pangulo, meron pa po akong kontrata at hindi ko pa po kaya. Pag handa na po ako, pag-iisipan ko.’ Sabi nila, ‘Kung ano ang nasa puso mo, sundin mo. Kung ano ang nasa isip mo, ‘yan ang sundan mo.’ Hindi po nila ako pinilit.’”
Highlighting the weight of the decision, Willie mentioned the emotional turmoil he experienced, expressing gratitude for being considered for public service.
“Nag-dasal ako at hindi ako nakatulog, at naluluha ako dahil isang karangalan sa katulad kong TV host, na alukin ng isang presidente ng Pilipinas, na magsilbi sa bayan,” he added.
Willie stressed the distinction between public servants and politicians, emphasizing the importance of avoiding conflicts and egos associated with politics.
“Dapat hindi pulitiko ang tawag sa mga nagsisilbi sa bayan. Dapat ang tawag sa kanya ay publiko-serbisyo. Public servant. Dahil kapag nahaluan ng pulitiko, nandyan ang away, nandyan ang ego,” he stated.
Concluding his speech, Willie affirmed his commitment to genuine public service, promising to serve with dedication and extend assistance to those in need.
“Handa akong gumawa ng kabutihan, handa akong magsilbi, hindi lang sa bayan, handa akong magsilbi sa mga nangangailangan ng tulong,” Willie declared, marking the beginning of his political journey as he aims to contribute positively to the nation’s governance.
