Ion Perez exits Tarlac council race, explains he wants to ‘serve the right way’

TV personality and “It’s Showtime” host Ion Perez has decided not to run for a councilor position in Concepcion, Tarlac, in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. The announcement was made on his TikTok account on Monday, Nov. 4.

In his post, Perez expressed gratitude to his supporters in his hometown. “Sa mga kalugar ko diyan sa Concepcion, una po maraming salamat sa tiwala at suporta niyo na ibinigay sa akin. Pinapaalam ko lang po na hindi na po ako tatakbo o tutuloy bilang konsehal ng Concepcion,” he stated.

Perez explained that his choice to withdraw stemmed from a desire to further prepare himself before stepping into public office. “Gusto ko po munang ihanda ang sarili ko para hindi mapahiya sa inyo at mapaglingkuran kayo nang tama,” he added, expressing his commitment to serve effectively when the time is right.

Fans quickly responded to his post with supportive messages. “Thank you for choosing the right choice, Ion!” one TikTok user commented, while others commended his humility and thoughtfulness in making the decision.

@perezion27

Metung amanu bilang pasasalamat.

♬ original sound – Perezion27

Perez initially filed his certificate of candidacy on Oct. 1, joining other celebrity figures such as Marco Gumabao, Rosmar Tan, and Marjorie Barretto who remain in the race for local government roles in 2025. Known for his role as “Kuya Escort” in the “Miss Q&A” segment on “It’s Showtime,” Perez has been a staple in the show since 2018 and now serves as one of its main hosts, alongside his wife, Vice Ganda, and other prominent names.