Villanueva Criticized for Alleged VIP Treatment at Enchanted Kingdom
USED HIS POWER? – A viral TikTok video posted by user @junechristen has sparked controversy after she claimed that Senator Joel Villanueva allegedly used his influence to have a private ride experience at Enchanted Kingdom, a popular amusement park in the Philippines.
According to @junechristen, her reaction was triggered by a Politiko article published on September 9 titled, “Hindi Pala Safe! From pork barrel to flood control scam, Jinggoy Estrada, Joel Villanueva implicated in alleged kickback scheme.” She said the report didn’t surprise her because she personally witnessed Villanueva allegedly using his position for personal benefit.
She recounted her experience while visiting the park with friends. While they were waiting in line for the Twin Spin ride, they were first asked to wait as a group of “fast pass” holders was given priority. She said this was understandable and fair. However, when it was finally their turn, they were stopped again and told to wait for the next round — even though there were still extra seats available.
Frustrated, they asked a staff member why they weren’t allowed to ride. The employee allegedly replied, “Request po ni senator kasi ayaw niya may kasama.” When asked who the senator was, the staff member reportedly identified Senator Villanueva.
Visibly upset, @junechristen expressed her anger in her TikTok video, saying: “It’s so freaking annoying! Just because you’re a senator, you decided to freaking close out the whole ride just so you could have it privately?” She added, “The fact that you didn’t want kasama in the ride and then you joke about how you’re too old [for that] then don’t freaking ride!”
The video quickly went viral and gained even more attention after it was shared by the Facebook page Nutribun Republic on September 9.
As of now, Senator Villanueva has not released any statement addressing the incident or the allegations. The viral video has fueled public discussion, with many expressing frustration over how public officials are perceived to use their positions for personal privilege — especially amid recent corruption scandals that Villanueva has also been linked to.