Veteran actor-comedian Dennis Padilla has come to the defense of his close friend, Sen. Robin Padilla, urging critics to refrain from using insulting language as the senator continues to face backlash over his role in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Robin, who is serving as a senator-judge in the proceedings, has been the subject of criticism on social media following several of his remarks during the trial.
Speaking to entertainment reporters during the Maddox Iconic Runway: Diamond Jewelry Fashion Show 2026, Dennis said he has seen many of the comments directed at the senator and believes some have crossed the line.
“Hindi, hindi maganda. Tsaka, I’m sure, ‘yung mga comments ng mga taong ‘yan, tandaan n’yo ‘to, babalik sa inyo ‘yan. God will prove you wrong.”
Dennis said he is particularly hurt by people referring to Robin as “bobo,” describing the label as offensive and unfair.
“Nasasaktan ako roon sa sinasabi na bobo si Robin. I hate that word. Kumbaga, wala namang bobong tao. Tsaka, very insulting.”
He appealed to social media users to express their opinions without resorting to personal attacks.
“Sa mga basher, huwag naman tayong umabot sa ganu’n kababa. Itaas naman natin ang quality ng pagsasalita natin. May pinag-aralan naman ang mga Pilipino.”
While acknowledging the criticism surrounding the impeachment proceedings, Dennis said he believes Robin still enjoys the support of many Filipinos.
He pointed to the senator’s strong showing in early preference surveys for the 2028 national elections as an indication that public support for the actor-turned-lawmaker remains intact.
Robin Padilla has been under public scrutiny over several of his statements and interventions during the Senate impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, prompting widespread debate on social media regarding his performance as a senator-judge.
