Actress Nadine Lustre did not mince words as she joined the public outcry against alleged corruption in flood control projects, saying it is heartbreaking to see ordinary Filipinos suffer while public funds are misused.
“I’m really sad seeing people struggling, losing their homes, livelihood, pets, because we can’t find a solution,” Lustre said in an ABS-CBN News report. She added, “Nakaka-galit, nakaka-lungkot na ‘yung binibigay natin na buwis sa ganon napupunta. Nakakainis talaga. It is sad funds are being used for something else.”
Her comments come amid growing public anger online, where calls for “lifestyle checks” on politicians and their families have trended after displays of extravagant living surfaced. Lustre said the collective demand for transparency is crucial, noting that citizens should never remain silent.
“It is good people are speaking up. It is important we are heard by the people,” she explained. “When you stand up for yourself, people will do something about it. At the end of the day, they have to take care of people. We are paying them to help us and make things better for us.”
The actress admitted feeling discouraged at times, particularly when thinking about how taxpayers’ money is being diverted. “Sabi ko nga, ‘di maiwasan isipin na ‘yung binabayad natin tax ‘di nagagamit for the people. Nakaka-discourage. You want to be accountable and be a good payer because that is how you contribute to the country,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of being outspoken, citing Vice Ganda as someone she looks up to for his courage to speak freely. “We all have to be outspoken. Si Meme, I have always admired Meme. Hindi siya natatakot sabihin nasa utak niya. At this day and age, we have to say what we want to say. Kung hindi, walang mangyayari sa atin,” Lustre stressed.
