Actress and content creator Rica Peralejo issued a clarification following the mixed reactions to her viral post about Leni Robredo’s decision not to run in the 2028 presidential elections.
Peralejo initially drew attention after posting on Threads: “Sobrang saya kong madinig na hindi SYA tatakbo. This country doesn’t deserve her and this country won’t believe her anyway — so be it.”
She added that people should face the consequences of the leaders they choose, while also expressing her personal sentiment as a wife and mother.
“Plus the fact that as a wife & mom, mas gusto kong enjoyin nya na ang buhay nya sa tahimik nyang pagtulong sa abot ng kanyang makakaya habang involved na involved parin sya sa buhay ng kanyang mga anak.”
While many agreed with her perspective, others criticized the statement, particularly supporters of Robredo.
In response, Peralejo took to Facebook to further explain her stance, emphasizing that her post was not meant to diminish the former vice president.
“Just dropping by to say na Mam Leni is my forever TOTGA (cue music: Nanghihinayang) at may problema kayo sa reading comprehension if you read my post as one that is 1) putting her down and 2) I am for the other camps. Never,” she said.
She also expressed continued admiration for Robredo, calling her “The One That Got Away,” and admitted she would always feel a sense of regret over not seeing her as president.
At the same time, Peralejo said she is glad to see Robredo serving in a place where she is valued and respected.
“I cannot stand seeing the disrespect for her and her family, hindi talaga worth and also because magwowork lang ang pamamaraan ng leader kung susunod ang mamayan.”
She also pointed out what she believes is a broader issue among the public.
“And the first thing we need to change is reading and comprehension. Caption palang eh nahirapan na tayong basahin ng mabuti pano pa ba habang nagbabasa tayo ng mga mahahabang background at plataporma ng mga kandidato?”
In a separate remark, Peralejo also shared her evolving perspective on patriotism.
“Lately din kasi ay nasasabi kong , ‘Ang mamatay [nang] dahil sayo’ is no longer true for me kaya hindi ko na maawit talaga yang part na yan.”
Her statements come amid ongoing discussions about Robredo’s political future, after the Naga City mayor confirmed she would no longer seek a national position in 2028.
As of now, public reactions remain divided, with some supporting Peralejo’s viewpoint while others continue to express hope that Robredo might reconsider her decision.
