Veteran actress and former Batangas governor Vilma Santos tackled concerns about political dynasties in the Philippines as her sons, Luis Manzano and Ryan Christian Recto, submitted their certificates of candidacy for the 2025 mid-term elections.
Santos, known as the “Star for All Seasons,” recently shared her support for her sons’ political ambitions in an interview with showbiz journalist Gorgy Rula. She emphasized that their decision to enter politics aligns with her own goal to serve as Batangas governor once again. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, her husband, has also extended his support to the family’s collective move toward public service.
Luis Manzano, a popular media personality, is vying for the vice gubernatorial seat alongside his mother, while his younger brother Ryan Christian Recto seeks a congressional post. Santos expressed her hope that these new candidacies would inject younger perspectives into the political landscape, a shift she believes is essential given the growing presence and influence of younger voters.
“Alam mo sa totoo lang, it cannot be always ito na lang tayo nang ito,” Santos shared in a Pilipinas Star Ngayon report, touching on the need for systemic changes in politics. She acknowledged that criticisms around political dynasties are common but remarked, “The system in politics… you asked me right now, hindi pa rin naman ako kuntento.”
Reflecting on her lengthy public service career, Santos cited moments when she took difficult stances, such as her support for ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal and her opposition to the death penalty, moves that led to losing committee roles. “Naranasan ko rin ‘yan for 24 years,” she recalled, describing the resilience such experiences required.
Santos also expressed her comfort working alongside her children in public service. “I need energy in serving our people. I need fresh ideas, younger ideas,” she stated, underscoring the importance of connecting with the Gen Z and millennial demographic, who now represent a significant voter base. “Ito ‘yung pagbibigay ng pagkakataon,” she added, affirming her commitment to new perspectives.
Ultimately, Santos left the decision to the people of Batangas, emphasizing that it is up to the voters to determine who they trust to lead: “Ito’y ino-offer lang naman. Kung pagkakatiwalaan n’yo, nasa inyo naman e.”
