Pokwang Saddened by Foreign Priest’s Remarks
POKWANG — The comedienne expressed her deep frustration over the growing corruption in the Philippines after a foreign priest spoke about the country’s condition.
The priest said, “The system in the Philippines is very corrupt. The government is sucking the blood of the poor just to make wealth.” In response, Pokwang angrily posted online, “NAKAKAHIYA NA KAYO MGA KURAKOT!!! TAPOS ANG KARAMIHAN PA SA INYO MGA MAKA DYOS KUNO TANG INA!!!!”
Earlier, TV5 host Gretchen Ho shared a sad and painful story that showed how corruption in the Philippines is now affecting ordinary Filipinos abroad. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 6, 2025, she said that one of her relatives was refused money exchange service at Oslo Airport in Norway. The worker at the counter told them, “You came from the Philippines? We cannot exchange your dollars because of the corruption and money laundering in the Philippines.” Her relative, who only wanted to exchange $300, felt humiliated and was told to find another money changer outside the airport.
Gretchen said she felt hurt and frustrated, realizing that the country’s poor image caused by corruption is now being felt even by innocent Filipinos overseas. Her post quickly went viral, with many people expressing anger and sadness. She ended her message with a question that touched many hearts: “What are we going to do about this, Pilipinas?”
Her story clearly showed how corruption damages the entire nation. It not only destroys the system within the country but also affects how the world views Filipinos. What should have been a simple travel errand became a painful reminder that the wrong actions of a few powerful individuals can bring shame to an entire country.
Singer and comedian Ogie Alcasid also reacted to Gretchen’s post, saying he felt angry and heartbroken to see honest Filipinos being treated unfairly because of corrupt officials. Ogie has long spoken out against corruption and was one of the artists who joined a large protest on September 21, 2025, standing with Filipinos who continue to fight for truth, justice, and change.