Genuine concern for the livelihood of more than 500 staff and crew on the hit TV show “Ang Probinsyano”, according to lead actor Coco Martin, was the reason for his emotional outburst on the shutdown of ABS-CBN. Martin has stayed silent after his last statement to the media on the matter.
Solicitor General Jose Calida reacted to the actor’s statements during the last hearing of the House of Representatives’ Committees on legislative franchises and good government and public accountability on the network’s franchise last Monday.
In response, the solons present during the proceedings opted not to dwell on the controversy surrounding the actor’s statements as it would lead the discussion away from the substance of the issues levied against ABS-CBN. They said that it would better to respect the personal opinions of Mr. Coco Martin on the matter.
In a statement, Ms. Angel Locsin stated her admiration for the actor’s principled stand, and that his opinion should be respected as being part of the democratic process. “I know your intentions are pure and thank you for standing up for what you believe in,” said Locsin.
A veteran journalist also echoed Locsin’s statement that the feelings of all individuals including that of Coco Martin on the issues being raised should be respected. “Coco may not be perfect in language or expression but, clearly, his heart is in the right place,” he said.
Actress and co-star Yassi Pressman also vouched for the integrity and kind-heartedness of Mr. Martin.
“Si Coco Martin po ay ilang taon ko na pong kilala, at sa pagkakakilala ko po sa kanya ay mabuti po siyang tao,” she said.
“Pasensya na po kayo, kung sa pagkarinig po ninyo ay nadadala po siya sa kanyang emosyon, at ‘yun po ay dahil mahal na mahal niya po ang mga ‘kapamilya’ niya. Kami po iyon, isa sa 500 mga katrabaho, sa harap ng kamera at sa likod. Mga pamilya po niya,” the Pressman said as she appealed for understanding.
The actress also thanked Mr. Martin for his genuine concern towards his co-workers.
“Salamat Coco, sa lahat ng mabuting nagawa mo para sa aming lahat, at hindi namin makakalimutan ang lahat ng iyon habang buhay,” Pressman said.