Senator Jinggoy Estrada has clarified a viral social media video that emerged after he extended assistance to fire victims in Barangay Bartis, San Juan City, on April 18. Estrada, who previously served as the mayor of the city, explained that representatives from his office were not allowed to announce the aid he intended to provide. This situation left him with no choice but to personally address the community, although, according to him, no one was willing to engage with them.
Estrada recounted that he confronted a local official in San Juan City regarding the incident. The senator claimed that there were attempts to portray him as using his Senate position for personal gain. “Opo, ako po ay senador at ginagamit ko ang posisyong ito para makatulong lalong-lalo na sa mga taga-San Juan na kinalakihan ko at hindi ko hahayaan na mapigilan ako na makiramay sa mga nangangailangan sa panahong kailangang-kailangan nila ng tulong,” Estrada stated firmly.
In response to the controversy, Estrada shared a video in which he can be seen announcing his distribution of cash assistance. He emphasized that the spread of the TikTok video, which painted him in a negative light, was politically motivated. “Ang pagpapalabas at pagpapakalat ng mapanirang TikTok video ay malinaw na malinaw na may bahid pulitika. Kung bakit ngayon ito ipinakalat, tanging ang mga nasa likod nito ang siyang makakasagot,” the senator argued.
Estrada expressed disappointment over the incident, asserting that his intention was merely to help the fire victims and not to engage in any political maneuvering. He called on the public to be cautious of the information they consume on social media, particularly during times when disinformation can easily influence perceptions.
The senator’s clarification comes at a time when public officials are increasingly scrutinized for their actions, especially in the context of providing aid during emergencies. Estrada’s statements reflect a broader concern about how political narratives are shaped and disseminated through social media platforms.
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Despite the controversy, Estrada reiterated his commitment to assisting his fellow San Juan residents, emphasizing that his primary goal remains to provide help to those who need it most. He assured the public that he would continue to serve his constituents, regardless of the challenges or obstacles that may arise.