Comedian and talent manager Ogie Diaz recently shared a pointed social media post listing the types of senatorial candidates he refuses to vote for, subtly referencing current figures without naming names.
In his lengthy message, Diaz emphasized integrity and authenticity as essential traits for those aspiring to join the Senate. He opened his post by listing behaviors and traits that disqualify a candidate in his eyes, including those who have made violent remarks like “Mamatay kayong lahat!” or those who run for office without clear plans, saying they’ll only act once elected.
Diaz also criticized candidates who claim to be kind and just but are known for mistreating their staff and constantly changing personnel. He called out individuals who use their past acts of kindness as tools to guilt others, and those who present themselves as champions of women’s rights but remain silent under misogynistic leadership. He noted that one such individual intentionally skipped hearings on Quiboloy’s alleged human trafficking cases, allegedly to avoid alienating religious supporters.
He expressed disapproval of candidates who voted against the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, apparently due to pressure from Malacañang. He mentioned two such politicians, both currently seeking endorsement from powerful religious groups.
Other red flags for Diaz include those who backtrack on strong pronouncements when faced with backlash, as well as those who act overly subservient to people in power. He also took issue with candidates who prioritize political alliances over family, pointing to one who endorsed other politicians but not even their sibling, who once saved their father’s life.
Diaz warned voters not to fall for flashy promises like “I will uplift your lives” or exaggerated commitments of financial aid. Instead, he urged the public to reflect this Holy Week on what truly matters: proven competence, legislative achievements, and genuine public service.
He ended by lamenting the absence of statesmen like the late senators Miriam Defensor Santiago, Raul Roco, and Jovito Salonga, encouraging voters to bring back dignity and value to the Senate.
“Who are you voting for? Or worse, who makes you sick just thinking about voting for them?” Diaz asked, challenging Filipinos to be more discerning in the upcoming elections.