Kris Aquino during her interview with Boy Abunda on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda. Screenshot from GMA Network/YouTube
MANILA — Kris Aquino said she would consider serving as Philippine health secretary if her health improved, citing years of treatment for autoimmune illnesses and the expense of medical care.
The television personality, 55, spoke during a two-part interview on GMA Network’s Fast Talk with Boy Abunda aired October 28 and 29. Asked whether she would enter politics, she replied, “Yes, but I’m not healthy.” Her late father, former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., had envisioned a political future for her, she said, but pursuing one would require “a miracle.”
Aquino, whose mother, Corazon Aquino, and brother, Benigno Aquino III, served as president, said she hoped a future administration might appoint her to the Department of Health. She advocated more affordable medicines, including reconsidering import taxes, and better school nutrition through meals and milk. Some medicines already qualify for value-added tax exemptions under Philippine law. No appointment has been announced.
She also called for honest government appointees, clarifying that she was not referring to any particular official.
In an October 27 Instagram post, Aquino said two major organs required further medical attention, without identifying them. In the interview, she reported having some better days but did not suggest that her illnesses had resolved. She credited relatives and friends with helping her through costly treatment. Reflecting on mortality, she said, “I hope to make it to 60.”
Her son Bimby, 19, said he hoped Aquino and Abunda, his godfather, would accompany him down the aisle when he marries. Aquino said she would prefer to be hospitalized at the end of her life to spare her son further distress. Asked whether he could envision becoming Philippine president, Bimby answered, “Absolutely!” He announced no political plans.
Aquino said First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos had helped handle her annulment from James Yap, recalling that she saw her twice at the law firm’s offices.
Aquino, who has resumed selected endorsement work, expressed interest in working again with Abunda in 2027, possibly on a television special or podcast. Neither announced a confirmed project.
