Senator Kiko Pangilinan Condemns Net25 for Dragging Sharon Cuneta Into Corruption Controversy

Manila, September 2025 – Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has strongly denounced television network Net25 for what he described as an “unprofessional and disrespectful” act after his wife, singer-actress Sharon Cuneta, was dragged into discussions concerning a high-profile corruption probe on flood-control projects. The senator is demanding a formal apology for the unnecessary and personal mention of his wife in a matter she has no involvement in.

The Controversial Broadcast

The issue stems from a televised episode of the public affairs program Sa Ganang Mamamayan, where Senator Dante Marcoleta appeared as a guest. During the broadcast, anchors reportedly criticized Senator Pangilinan for backing a proposal to establish an independent fact-finding body that would look into irregularities in flood-control contracts.

However, the discussion took an unexpected turn when the hosts invoked Sharon Cuneta’s name. They sarcastically suggested that she should “advise her husband” against allegedly interfering with the official Senate investigation, despite the fact that she has no political role or association with the inquiry.

The comments triggered immediate backlash from Senator Pangilinan, who said the remarks were entirely inappropriate and a blatant attempt to drag an innocent person into political mudslinging.

Pangilinan Sets the Record Straight

In a statement, Senator Pangilinan clarified that he did not author the proposal to form an independent body to investigate the corruption allegations. Instead, he merely expressed support for the resolution, which was initially introduced by another senator. He emphasized that it was unfair and misleading to depict him as the main proponent, especially to justify targeting his family.

More importantly, he stressed that Sharon Cuneta has never interfered in his political affairs and remains uninvolved in any government or legal matters. According to Pangilinan, it was hurtful and unacceptable for a media platform to bring his wife into a highly politicized discussion simply to score rhetorical points.

Demand for a Formal Apology

Calling the remarks “insensitive and unprofessional,” Pangilinan demanded a public apology from the network and the individuals involved in the segment. He said that public figures like him are used to criticism, but private individuals—especially spouses and family members who choose to stay out of politics—should be spared from unwarranted attacks.

He also pointed out that Sharon was deeply affected by the comments, particularly because she had no knowledge or involvement in the issue and was publicly mocked for something she did not say or do.

Net25 Anchor Issues Apology

Following public criticism and the senator’s official response, one of the Net25 anchors involved in the program issued an on-air apology to Sharon Cuneta. The anchor acknowledged that the remarks may have caused distress and clarified that it was never their intention to hurt anyone personally.

Despite the apology, Senator Pangilinan reiterated his call for deeper reflection within media circles, urging broadcasters to maintain professionalism and ethical standards, especially when referring to people who are not public officials.

Why the Issue Matters

This controversy sheds light on several important issues:

Media Responsibility: Journalists and broadcasters are expected to handle political discourse with integrity and avoid personal attacks on uninvolved individuals.
Boundary Between Public and Private Life: Spouses and families of politicians are not fair game for political commentary unless they themselves are involved.
Respect for Women in Public Discourse: The segment highlighted the recurring issue of women being used as rhetorical devices or distractions in male-dominated political debates.
Political Ethics: Pangilinan’s defense of his wife speaks to a broader call for civility and accountability in public dialogue.

Public Support for Sharon

Fans and supporters of Sharon Cuneta flooded social media with messages of support, condemning the unfair treatment she received and praising Senator Pangilinan for defending his wife with calm and clarity. Many called out the dangers of dragging uninvolved individuals—especially women—into political crossfire, demanding more responsible media behavior.

Looking Ahead

While Net25 has yet to issue a formal, network-wide apology, the incident serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility of media institutions in shaping public discourse. For Senator Pangilinan and Sharon Cuneta, this moment was both personal and political—but also an opportunity to highlight the values of fairness, professionalism, and respect in the public arena.

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