Ballot 55:
Wilfredo “Willie” Revillame
Television Host
Independent
Age: 64 (Born Jan. 27, 1961)
Highest educational attainment: High school; Centro Escolar University (did not finish)
Endorsed by: Former Ilocos Sur governor Chavit Singson
Saying he’s tired of pointless “political bickering,” Revillame is eyeing a Senate seat to “fight for the poor.” He promises to help more people and initiate measures to address the concerns of the poor, mainly from the health, labor and education sectors.
Field of Expertise
Issues and Controversies
Gained notoriety for publicly scolding members of his staff and co-hosts, even going on long rants and diatribes against critics before a live audience
Embroiled in a 13-year legal battle with ABS-CBN Corp. over an alleged breach of contract due to copyright infringement of a show. In 2023, the Supreme Court ruled in his favor and junked the network’s P1-billion counterclaim based on a previous ruling that found the company guilty of “forum shopping.”
Drew flak from netizens for admitting in an interview that he had no legislative plans because he was not yet elected, after filing his certificate of candidacy in October 2024.
Where this candidate stands on top 5 concerns of the Filipino voter
- Promises to increase the discount on essential goods to 30% from 20% for senior citizens and persons with disabilities
- Without giving specifics, vows to help farmers and lead efforts in modernizing the agriculture sector
- Favors denial of bail for public servants accused of gravest corruption and pardon for those found guilty
None
None
- Pushes for improved evacuation centers for victims of flooding, earthquakes and other natural hazards, and suggests stronger foundation for these infrastructures so they last longer
Interesting Facts
- Resisted the prodding of influential people, including former president Rodrigo Duterte, to seek public office in past elections then surprised many when he filed his CoC on the last day, saying he was prompted to join politics to bring someone with a “good heart” to the Senate
- Became popular for giving away his trademark jacket, cash and other prizes to contestants in competitions on his shows and the audience