Celebrated actor and producer Coco Martin has once again shut down rumors of a political bid, despite admitting that he is frequently approached to run for public office.
The Kapamilya star addressed the recurring questions about his political ambitions during an LPG brand campaign launch, where he was accompanied by his onscreen and real-life partner, Julia Montes.
“Honestly, matagal na matagal na ‘yan. Almost every election, lagi akong tatanungin niyan. Paulit-ulit kong sinasabi na honestly, wala akong interes kasi nakikita ko [kung] gaano kahirap,” he said.
While acknowledging that there are well-meaning politicians, Martin explained that he prefers to extend help to his fellow Filipinos through his own private means without entering the political arena.
“Hindi ko sinasabi na ano ah. Meron naman tayong matitino na politician. Pero napakahirap na sitwasyon. Kasi kung nakakatulong ako kahit konti, sa ating kapwang mga Pilipino, sa sarili kong paraan, okay na ako d’un,” he said. “Kaysa ang gawin ko is [ilagay] ko ang sarili ko d’un and after that, iba-iba ang intensyon ng tao eh — kung maa-appreciate nila or sirain ka nila.”
Martin concluded by emphasizing that he values a peaceful lifestyle and remains dedicated to his craft as an actor and director.
“Kaya sabi ko nga na better na lang na tahimik kami [ni Julia] bilang mag-partner and tahimik lang ako sa trabaho ko. At least sa simpleng pamamaraan, mas makakatulong tayo sa maraming Pilipino,” he said.