What a script. It is no different at the ballot box. At this point, polls favor celluloid hero Joseph Estrada to take top billing, beating challengers that include a television talk show host. A former television news presenter is the running mate of one-time defense minister Renato de Villa. Altogether, at least 60 declared candidates in various elections are counting on celebrity to boost their prospects.
Film is a very powerful medium.
Consequently, even entrenched politicians look for ways to boost their star profile. Lim had three autobiographical films made before launching his bid for the Manila mayorship in 1992. Last year, Ruben Torres, Ramos's executive secretary, pulled the same stunt when he ran for senator. Carefully-timed marriages are common. Revilla and Mercado lived together for 12 years before tying the knot on the eve of the campaign kickoff.