Piolo Pascual did not join last Sunday’s massive anti-corruption rally, but the award-winning actor still made his sentiments clear during the red carpet premiere of his latest film, ‘The Ride’, held on Tuesday, Sept. 23.
Before the advanced screening began, Pascual thanked guests for attending despite the bad weather—then slipped in a pointed remark against corrupt officials.
“Muntik na mag-cancel ‘yung premiere because of the typhoon, and we had to consider that. So thank you for taking the time kahit na may mga baha, kahit na may mga corrupt,” Pascual quipped, drawing laughs from the audience.
The actor also emphasized the timeliness of the film’s themes. “Napapanahon ‘yung pelikula natin not just because of what’s happening in the country but also because of our relationship with our families, specifically father and son. We want to send something to everyone na may mga choices tayo sa buhay natin, so sana makipag-reflect tayo after ng pelikula,” he added.
In recent weeks, corruption scandals involving infrastructure projects have sparked nationwide outrage and protests, with celebrities joining calls for accountability.
The premiere was also attended by Maricel Soriano, Belle Mariano, Joshua Garcia, and Arci Muñoz, showing their support for Pascual.
‘The Ride’ follows the story of Barry (Pascual), a father entangled in crime and corruption, and his son (Kyle Echarri), whose relationship with him is tested by the father’s choices. The film is now showing in cinemas nationwide.
