MANILA, Philippines — Comedian and television host Vice Ganda urged Filipinos to vote wisely and support good governance as heavy rains and flooding continued to affect communities across the country.
Vice Ganda made the remarks Tuesday, Aug. 18, during an episode of the noontime program “It’s Showtime,” where she, Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario discussed the continuing rains and floods that have displaced families and endangered lives.
She expressed sympathy for Filipinos who have become accustomed to preparing for floods and leaving their homes and belongings to seek safety.
“Yung mga Pilipino handa na rin. Alam na rin nila. Nasanay na e. Kawawa naman,” Vice Ganda said.
She said she hoped Filipinos would eventually experience a time when rain brings comfort rather than fear.
“Balang-araw, mararanasan din natin sa bansang ito ‘yung ‘pag uulan, matutulog na lang tayo… Ang dulot sa atin ng ulan ay comfort, hindi na takot,” she said.
Vice Ganda then urged voters to choose public officials carefully, linking good governance to the country’s ability to address recurring flooding and other disasters.
“Alam niyo kung paano mangyayari ‘yan? Unang step, bumoto tayo nang maayos. Bumoto tayo nang tama,” she said.
She also criticized vote-buying, saying voters who sell their votes could contribute to the election of leaders who fail to address problems affecting their communities.
Vice Ganda said no Filipino should have to suffer the effects of storms and flooding.
The Philippines has experienced weeks of heavy rain from the southwest monsoon, or habagat, causing flooding and landslides in several areas and resulting in deaths and displacement.