MANILA, Philippines -- Although Robin Padilla acknowledges gay and lesbian relationships as a "reality" in the Philippines, the action star would rather same-sex intimacy be kept off national television.
The 42-year-old actor, who has been identified with a macho image since entering showbiz in the '80s, expressed disapproval of airing any "kissing scene" between individuals of the same sex on TV.
Referring to local shows depicting gay relationships, Padilla on Thursday said, "Huwag lang sana maghalikan sa telebsiyon naman at telebsiyon na 'yon. Iwan nalang nila sa pelikula iyon... Hayaan lang natin hangga't hindi sila naghahalikaan na dalawa doon."
Padilla, whose brother Rustom is transgender BB Gandanghari, was quick to clarify that he welcomes the advancement of gay rights.
"Wala tayong magagawa, realidad na 'yan. Kasama na 'yan sa buhay ng tao, at alam niyo naman, tayo'y... Mahilig tayong kumpoya kung ano nangyayari sa Amerika. Ngayon ang sinisigaw nila, gay rights, kung anu-anong klaseng rights. Eh ibigay na natin, kung anong rights ang hinihingi," he said.
The actor is referring to the recent landmark ruling of the US Supreme Court on laws related to same-sex marriage.
The high court on Wednesday nullified the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which deprives federal benefits to same-sex couples. It also ruled against Proposition 8, which clears the way for same-sex marriages to resume in California.
Asked for his thoughts on the Philippines following suit, Padilla noted the popularity of gay showbiz personalities such as Vice Ganda, and the significant contribution of gays and lesbians to the industry.
"Wala na tayong magagawa, in-accept na. In-accept na 'yan ng Pinoy. Number 1 superstar ng mga Pilipino si vice ganda. So siguro dun palang, alam na natin kung sino na.
"Hindi naman sila masamang tao, mabubuting tao sila. Sila nga ang masasabi kong talino ng industriya ngayon, ng pelikulang Pilipino. sila ang mga nananaig," he said.
On whether he welcomes the possibility of recognizing same-sex marriage in the Philippines, Padilla only said, "Ayoko na mag-komento diyan."
