Actress-singer Denise Laurel earned praise online for her blunt take on celebrities seeking public office despite lacking knowledge of government and laws.
In a candid interview with broadcast journalist Karen Davila on her YouTube channel, Laurel—great-granddaughter of former president José P. Laurel—made it clear she has no interest in politics despite her family’s long-standing legacy.
“I don’t dabble in politics at all. You won’t hear anything from me,” Laurel said. “I just feel that artistas who didn’t educate themselves on the government and laws should not be running. How are they going to help the country if they don’t know even just the basis of the groundwork?”
She stressed that while the passion to help people is admirable, it should be matched by preparation and competence.
“The love to help the people will always be there. But if you really, truly love your country and do something good for it, educate yourself first,” she added.
Netizens largely agreed with Laurel’s statement, praising her authenticity and principled stance. Some comments read: “She’s absolutely right… not just for artistas, but whoever wanted to be in public service. Be educated and equipped first and make sure your motive is true.”
“Educational background builds competence, but political will drives real change.”
“Ganyan ang mindset! Hindi yung sumikat ka lang, takbo ka kaagad because of your passion to help. You need proper education.”
Others went further, calling for systemic reform to raise the standards for candidacy in the Philippines, where the Constitution only requires literacy for someone to run for public office.
Laurel, who has been in the entertainment industry since childhood, acknowledged that being part of the Laurel clan comes with pressure but also instilled discipline. Still, she emphasized carving her own path in showbiz without relying on her family’s political name.
The actress currently appears in the GMA Network drama ‘Prinsesa ng City Jail’ and serves as one of the hosts of ‘Unang Hirit’, while continuing to balance her career with motherhood.
