Award-winning actor John Arcilla has shared his perspective on actors transitioning to politics, underscoring the importance of genuine intent in serving the public.
Speaking with Boy Abunda in a recent interview, Arcilla acknowledged that anyone, regardless of profession, has the right to run for public office.
“Lahat ng tao ay may karapatan na tumakbo sa politika at maging opisyal. Kesyo artista ka o hindi artista,” he said.
However, Arcilla stressed that motivations behind such a decision are crucial. He posed a thought-provoking question: “Ang tanong, bakit ka nandyan at pupunta sa politika? Para ba talaga maglingkod o para yumaman dahil wala kang pinagkakakitaan?”
For Arcilla, the pursuit of wealth in politics is inherently wrong, no matter one’s background.
“Kung para lang ‘yan sa pera, mali ka agad,” he said firmly. “Ang politika o pagiging opisyal ng bayan ay para maglingkod. ‘Pag yumaman ka daw na nasa politika ka o gobyerno, hindi ka naglilingkod.”
He further urged aspiring politicians, especially actors, to critically evaluate their intentions.
“Mas i-define mo sa sarili mo kung totoo bang paglilingkod ang iyong gustong mangyari, kung bakit ka nandiyan. Kung hindi rin lang, huwag mo nang ituloy,” he added.
Arcilla revealed that he has been approached several times to run for office but consistently declined.
“Nakarating ako sa edad na ito na tinanggihan ko lahat ng invitation sa akin,” he said.
The actor shared one instance when a congressman encouraged him to run as a councilor in Parañaque. Initially pressured, Arcilla was ultimately spared the decision due to a conflicting television project.
“Na-save ako dun sa crisis na desisyon dahil naawa lang ako sa nagpipilit sa akin. Pero buti na lang meron akong program sa TV na hindi pala ako pwedeng mag-campaign habang nasa telebisyon,” he recounted.
The pre-taped show could not be edited, which effectively barred him from running.
“I was so thankful kasi talagang ayoko ng politika,” he said.
Now at a stage in his life where he has no regrets about avoiding politics, Arcilla reiterated his stance:
“Kung ako man ay magkaka-interes sa politika ngayon, wala na akong stamina sa edad kong ito,” he concluded.
John Arcilla’s thoughtful remarks emphasize the need for honesty and dedication in public service, urging anyone considering politics—actor or otherwise—to pursue it with integrity and a genuine desire to serve.
