Vice Ganda made it clear that he has nothing to do with partner Ion Perez’s abrupt withdrawal of candidacy for councilor in Concepcion, Tarlac.
Earlier this week, Ion announced through a TikTok video that he was stepping back from the 2025 race in his hometown, citing the need to better prepare himself for politics.
“Gusto ko po munang ihanda ang sarili ko para hindi mapahiya sa inyo at mapaglingkuran kayo nang tama.”
Netizens commended Ion’s move, with many saying this should set an example for other celebrities and influencers who run for public office without fully understanding its responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Ion’s partner Vice Ganda said he has no influence on Ion’s decision to withdraw his candidacy.
The It’s Showtime host stressed it was Ion’s sole decision as they let each other process things on their own while offering support when needed.
“Hindi ganun ang dynamics namin ni Ion. Kaming dalawa, we don’t decide for each other. Hindi ako sasabihan ni Ion na dapat ganito yung gawin ko. Ako rin sa kaniya, hindi ko sasabihin dapat ganito ‘yung gawin. Hinahayaan namin ‘yung isa’t-isa na prumuseso ng mga bagay, pero nakaalalay kami.
Vice Ganda added, “Pwede kami magbigay ng suhestiyon, ng opinyon, lalo na ‘pag pinag-uusapan namin, nagpapalitan kami. Pero we will not decide for each other.”
“‘Yung mga desisyon niya sa buhay, desisyon niya yun. At pinagkakatiwalaan ko siya,” he furthered.
Ion’s decision did not come as a surprise for Vice Ganda, knowing his partner’s heart for public service.
“Kilala ko siya, at alam ko ang kabutihan ng puso ng asawa ko. Hindi siya mag-aaksaya ng pagmamahal, tiwala, at suporta mula sa mga tao,” Vice said, adding that Ion had previously served as a youth leader and has been actively involved in public service in their hometown.
Vice Ganda recalled Ion telling him the reason why he wanted to back out of the political race.
“Kung tutuloy man ako, kailangan ko siyang paghandaan, pagplanuhan, lahat. So ngayon, Ayokong ipahiya ‘yung mga magtitiwala sa akin. I will make sure I will make them proud,” Vice Ganda quoted his husband as saying.
