Not Bobo Says Boy Abunda as He Praises Herlene Budol’s Intelligence
HERLENE BUDOL – Boy Abunda has once again sparked conversation online after firmly defending Herlene Budol from critics who question her intelligence.
Veteran television host Boy Abunda has spoken up in defense of actress and beauty queen Herlene Budol, saying he strongly disagrees with the notion that she is “bobo,” a label that has often been unfairly attached to her by critics.
Contrary to how some people perceive Herlene, the Asia’s King of Talk expressed his belief that the actress is far from unintelligent. During Herlene’s guest appearance on his Kapuso program, the young actress candidly shared her thoughts about being perceived as “shunga” and how challenging it can be to live with that label.
“Ang hirap maging bobo, e. Sobrang hirap ng wala kang alam. Pero lahat naman ng bagay napag-aaralan. So kulang lang ako sa experience,” Herlene told Tito Boy, opening up about her personal struggles and self-reflection.
Boy Abunda, however, was quick to counter Herlene’s harsh assessment of herself. Drawing from his years of experience as a host and interviewer, he emphasized that intelligence comes in many forms and should not be judged based on stereotypes or language proficiency alone.
“Hindi ako naniniwalang bobo ka. Maabilidad, matalino. Iba-iba lang ang articulation ng ating mga pananaw,” Tito Boy said, firmly defending Herlene. He further explained his stance by adding, “I don’t buy into the idea that you have to speak English very well to be intelligent.”
Herlene, for her part, made it clear that public opinion no longer defines her sense of self-worth. She stressed that what matters most to her is her ability to survive, provide, and make smart decisions in life.
“Ako, Tito Boy, wala akong pakialam kung anong gusto nilang itawag sa akin. Basta ako, marunong akong dumiskarte sa buhay at hindi ko gugutumin ang pamilya ko,” she said.
This perspective is not new for Herlene. Last year, in her exclusive interview with Ogie Diaz, she also shared her unique take on what being “bobo” means to her, particularly in the context of learning and growth.
“Para sa akin, Mama Ogs, ang pagiging bobo ‘yong pagiging willing mong matuto halos araw-araw. At marami pa po akong hindi alam pagdating sa pageantry,” Herlene explained.
Through Boy Abunda’s affirmation and her own words, Herlene Budol continues to challenge narrow definitions of intelligence, proving that resilience, adaptability, and willingness to learn are just as valuable as formal knowledge.
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