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Entertainment 16/05/2025 10:41

Janice de Belen Opens Up About Why She Won’t Enter Politics

In a candid podcast discussion with friends and family, Janice de Belen reveals why a political career isn’t for her, emphasizing personal traits and preparedness.

(From left) Janice de Belen, Carmina Villarroel, Gelli de Belen, and Candy Pangilinan. Image: Screengrab from YouTube/Gelli

Amid the growing number of celebrities venturing into politics, Janice de Belen, alongside her sister Gelli de Belen and friends Carmina Villarroel and Candy Pangilinan, confirmed they have no intention to seek government positions.

On their recent podcast episode, the four actresses shared their perspectives on leadership and the vital role of voters in choosing wisely, following the just-concluded elections.

Janice explained she never considered public office because being overly approachable isn’t in her nature.

“I never thought about that. First of all, I’m snobbish; I can’t do that,” she admitted.

She also candidly acknowledged her lack of qualifications to hold government office. “I don’t really feel it. I’m not educated enough for that. I don’t want to go out there and appear like an idiot. What if my brain can’t handle it anymore? What if I forget all the information?” she questioned.

Candy Pangilinan also said politics isn’t for her, despite her cousin, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, being recently re-elected.

“I really don’t want to. I’ve received offers already. I already have so much on my plate, I don’t want to add to it anymore. Number two, I don’t know if I can handle the responsibility if I’m there,” she shared.

Gelli de Belen simply stated she isn’t qualified for public service. “I am not qualified, so I will not. I may be concerned; I am concerned, but I am not qualified. I do not know how to implement all the concerns I have, so it is useless as well,” she explained.



Carmina Villarroel added she tends to worry a lot and can’t handle the pressures of politics. “I don’t want [to join politics] because I worry a lot, right? I can’t handle it because I’ll cause all the problems of others. I can’t set them aside when I go home,” she said.

She also warned that being in public service could drain her finances because of her generous nature. “I am compassionate. It’s not a bad thing, but I might run out of money helping other people,” she noted.

A Job to D!e or K!ll For
The group also discussed government officials’ salaries. Gelli checked online data, saying, “In the Philippines, a senator’s base monthly salary is around P90,000, but their total income can be significantly higher, potentially reaching P600,000 to P5 million a month due to additional income streams and responsibilities.”

Candy added that a senator’s earnings can “potentially reach P37 million annually while chairing the oversight committee. For a full term of 6 years, a senator is expected to receive P1.2 billion.”

They also looked up mayoral and congressional salaries, which range from P185,000 to P205,000 monthly for mayors, and congressmen can “expect to receive P210 million for each three-year term.”

“Right? That’s why people overdo themselves or kill each other just for a position because…,” said Carmina, with Gelli and Janice finishing, “they really earn well.”

“That’s why. I didn’t know that it was that high. We are talking about billions here,” Gelli remarked.

Carmina stressed that no amount of money can replace peace of mind outside politics. “But you know what? You can’t buy peace of mind with that; you can’t buy peace for your family,” she said.

She also pointed out that having a good heart alone isn’t enough to serve the public well.

“It’s not enough that you care, that you are considerate, that you are kind, and that you will not be corrupt. You really need to have the knowledge and skills in public service,” she explained. The de Belen sisters agreed, adding that officials must do more than just bark orders for others to follow.

Biographies of the Actresses:

  • Janice de Belen is a veteran Filipino actress and television host known for her extensive work in drama and variety shows. She is respected for her candid and straightforward personality both on and off camera.

  • Gelli de Belen, Janice’s younger sister, is also a well-known actress and television personality in the Philippines, admired for her versatility and advocacy work.

  • Carmina Villarroel is a celebrated actress and host who has built a reputation for her compassionate and thoughtful approach to her craft and public life.

  • Candy Pangilinan is a popular comedienne and actress known for her wit and relatable personality. She is also a relative of Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.

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