Actress Rita Avila has issued a reminder to Filipino voters not to be blinded by temporary financial assistance—or “ayuda”—that politicians may offer in the lead-up to the 2025 midterm elections.
Through a Facebook post on April 28, Avila echoed a netizen’s concerns about how cash aid is being used as a political tool to attract support. “Let’s not be dazzled by money or ayuda. It’s only a temporary form of help they don’t intend to sustain,” she wrote.
She also pointed out that such aid often comes from taxpayers’ money, arguing that true public service shouldn’t make citizens struggle for what they rightfully deserve.
Avila didn’t hold back in criticizing those enriching themselves while millions of Filipinos remain in poverty. In her posts, she also endorsed senatorial hopefuls Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, Heidi Mendoza, and Luke Espiritu, stating, “Let’s choose candidates who are not corrupt.”
Celebrities such as Anne Curtis, Janine Gutierrez, Edu Manzano, Pia Magalona, and Ogie Diaz have also voiced support for Pangilinan and Aquino.
The 2025 Philippine midterm elections are set for May 12.