Cristy Fermin Shares Observations About Arjo Atayde and Maine Mendoza’s Public Life After Discaya Controversy

Date: September 9, 2025

Introduction

Veteran showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin, known for her candid commentary on the lives of celebrities, recently shared her observations about the current public dynamic between actor-politician Arjo Atayde and his wife, actress and host Maine Mendoza. Her remarks come in the wake of Atayde’s alleged involvement in the ongoing flood control project corruption investigation, which has been linked to the Discaya business group.

While Fermin clarified that she was not making accusations, she noted what she described as subtle changes in the couple’s public presence — or lack thereof — since the scandal broke.

Cristy Fermin on Arjo and Maine: “Tahimik, pero may nararamdaman ang publiko”

On her radio program, Fermin expressed what many fans have also noticed:

“Tahimik sila ngayon. Hindi mo na sila nakikitang magkasama sa mga public event. Alam ko, gusto nila ng privacy — pero kapag artista ka, napapansin ng tao ang mga pagbabago.”

According to Fermin, it’s not unusual for high-profile couples to pull back from the limelight during times of controversy. However, she acknowledged that the timing of their reduced public presence coinciding with the DPWH flood control scandal has led some netizens to speculate about possible tensions behind the scenes.

No Public Conflict, But Observers Take Note

Despite the rumors, there has been no official confirmation from either Arjo or Maine about any rift. In fact, both have made independent public statements urging people not to believe everything circulating online, particularly unverified claims tying their marriage to political issues.

Cristy emphasized that her observations were based on media monitoring and public appearances — not insider information.

“Wala tayong sinasabing hiwalayan. Ang sinasabi lang natin, ramdam ng tao ang pagbabago. At natural lang ‘yan, lalo na kung may pinagdadaanan.”

Public Reactions: Mixed and Cautious

Following Cristy’s comments, fan reactions online have been mixed. Some expressed concern and curiosity, while others defended the couple’s choice to remain low-key.

“Let them breathe. Not everything needs to be on social media.”
“Cristy is just saying what we all noticed, and she’s not being disrespectful.”
“They’ve been through worse — they’ll be fine.”

Keeping the Focus on the Real Issue

Cristy also reminded her audience not to lose focus on the real matter at hand: the investigation into possible misuse of public funds. She warned the public against twisting celebrity stories into distractions.

“Hindi dapat ang love life ang sentro. Ang tanong: may anomalya ba sa flood control projects? May nawawalang pondo? Huwag tayong padala sa chismis lang.”

Conclusion

As the flood control investigation continues and Arjo Atayde’s name remains in the headlines, the public’s curiosity about his personal life — especially his marriage to Maine Mendoza — is understandable. But veteran columnist Cristy Fermin urges the public to strike a balance between observation and respect.

There may be silence now, but as she puts it: “Sometimes silence speaks, but it also protects.”

Related Articles (For Further Reading):

Maine Mendoza Responds to Rumors Linking Her to DPWH Scandal
Arjo Atayde Denies Involvement in Flood Control Fund Misuse
Cristy Fermin: A Career in Philippine Entertainment Commentary
How Public Scrutiny Affects Celebrity Couples During Political Scandals
Understanding the Flood Control Project Controversy: A Timeline