SHARON NOT LEAVING SHOWBIZ, EVEN IF KIKO WINS
by Lea Gatdula-Salterio, Philippine Daily Inquirer, March 21, 2001

IN CASE Sharonians get worried that the megastar will leave show business when her husband, lawyer Kiko Pangilinan, wins in the Senate race, Sharon Cuneta assures her followers she is not even planning to slow down.

"I will continue acting and singing because that’s where my heart is, just as Kiko’s heart is in serving the people," Sharon says. "Whatever projects or causes he has, I will support him. He can always count on me. What’s more important are my roles as his wife and mother of his children."

MEGASTAR Sharon Cuneta with hubby Kiko Pangilinan and daughter Frankie.

Sharon’s hubby is believed to be a shoo-in in the senate race largely because of her popularity all over the country. In fact, in most places where Kiko campaigns, people inevitably look for Sharon. But Kiko does not really mind.

"I am aware that Sharon is more popular than me," Kiko says. "She has been in show biz for more than 20 years and I know that a number of people will vote for me because they idolize her. But they should realize that being the husband of a popular figure is not a qualification for being a senator."

Sharon has been actively joining campaign sorties to assure the victory not only of her husband, but the entire slate of the People’s Power Coalition. She has become a much-awaited figure in the rallies of the PPC candidates, even in the provinces, where she draws huge crowds with her song numbers and undeniable charisma.

The megastar was earlier rumored to enter politics, too, and run for mayor of Pasay, where her late dad, Pablo Cuneta, ruled for over three decades. But Sharon has apparently no political ambition despite having been brought up in a political setup. The lure of the cameras and klieg lights proved to be stronger.

Instead, Sharon has decided to support the candidacy of her husband.