Senator Calls for Apology Over Flood-Control Project Remarks
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has firmly requested that a television network issue a public apology to his wife, actress Sharon Cuneta. This call comes after the network’s anchors involved her in discussions about alleged irregularities in flood-control projects, despite her having no connection to the matter.
During a recent interview with Senator Dante Marcoleta, Net25 news anchors urged Cuneta to persuade Pangilinan to resign from the Senate blue ribbon committee. The anchors based this suggestion on Pangilinan’s support of a separate proposal advocating for an independent investigation into flood-control projects—an initiative that Marcoleta himself is leading.
Clarifying the Origins of the Independent Probe Proposal
However, sources clarified that the proposal for an independent investigation actually originated from Senate Minority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, not Pangilinan. The senator merely voiced his support for creating an independent body called the Independent People’s Commission to oversee the probe.
Senator Pangilinan Defends Wife from Unfounded Accusations
“Is it right that in criticizing me, your anchors Nelson Lubao and Gen Subardiaga dragged my wife Sharon into the issue, when she has nothing to do with the corruption in flood control?” Senator Pangilinan said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.
He emphasized that Cuneta was unfairly brought into a controversy she had no involvement in, and that she was mocked on air. “This program disrespected Sharon and hurt her feelings, even though she has remained silent and has nothing to do with the corruption issue. Is this to stir discussion and increase your viewership?” he questioned.
Demand for Public Apology and Call to Respect Innocent Parties
Senator Pangilinan demanded that the network formally apologize to his wife. “Your anchors disrespected Sharon, insulted her, and wounded her feelings by dragging her into this issue. She deserves a public apology from Net25 and your anchorpersons,” he stated.
He further urged media outlets to refrain from involving innocent individuals or disrespecting the families of public officials, especially when they have no direct connection to Senate matters.
Community members and local leaders have noted the importance of maintaining respect and fairness in media coverage, particularly when public figures’ families are unjustly implicated.
For more news and updates on flood-control project controversy, visit Filipinokami.com.
