Kapamilya actor and director Coco Martin has finally addressed the criticisms he received for not joining the September 21 rally against corruption, where several celebrities and public figures showed up to call for accountability in government.
Many netizens questioned Coco’s absence from the nationwide protest, saying they expected him to use his platform and influence to amplify the public’s call for transparency and justice.
However, in an interview published today by Abante, the ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ star clarified that people have different ways of expressing their advocacy and fighting for what they believe in.
“Sabi ko nga, kasi ‘yung tao may iba’t ibang paraan ng pakikipaglaban. Hindi ko kailangang pumunta do’n sa kalye para makipagbatuhan at makipagsigawan kasi kung mapapanood mo ‘yung Batang Quiapo, ‘yon ‘yung ground ko, ‘yon ‘yung playground ko kung paano ko i-educate o makakaambag sa mga Pilipino,” Coco explained.
He emphasized that his teleserye serves as his platform to reflect real issues and raise awareness about the country’s current state.
“Ito ‘yung pamamaraan ko—ang pagkukuwento at pagtuturo sa mga tao kung paano nag-iisip, kung paano ‘yung nangyayaring korapsyon sa bansa, kung paano ‘yung ginagawa ng mga politiko,” he said.
Coco added that just like musicians who express their sentiments through songs, he uses storytelling in his shows to deliver social messages.
“’Yung paggawa ng teleserye, sinasalamin natin doon ang totoong buhay. Sa pamamagitan nito, tulad ng paggawa ng kanta ng ibang composer, doon nila ini-express ‘yung saloobin nila,” he noted.
He further stated that through ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’, he believes many viewers have become more socially aware and conscious of the realities surrounding them.
“I’m sure maraming tao ang nagigising. ‘Yon ‘yung kontribusyon naming artista at cast members ng Batang Quiapo—para mabigyan ng knowledge ‘yung manonood kung anuman ang nangyayari sa ating bansa,” Coco added.
