David Chua hopes to break Tondo stereotypes

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While many celebrities venture into politics for various reasons, actor and director David Chua take this path because he witnessed firsthand the issues that need to be addressed.

City councilor candidate David Chua TMT PHOTO

Having grown up in Tondo, Manila, he has seen both the struggles and the potential of his community. Now, he is stepping forward to make a change as he is now setting his sights on public service running for councilor in Manila's second district.

In an interview with The Manila Times and other members of the media, Chua acknowledges the doubts surrounding celebrities entering politics but believes that people should decide based on one's vision and competence.

"It's disheartening to hear that when someone is an actor, they're just an actor — that they don't know how to do anything other than smile, look good, sing, or dance. But that's why we have elections — so the people can decide what they want," he said.

Chua has been actively engaged in community work even before deciding to run for office. After his mother passed away in 2019, he established Damayan sa Distrito Dos (DDD), an organization that started with just 10 members distributing food while biking around the district.

"Then it grew. Senators Loren Legarda and Imee Marcos helped, and now we have 11,000 members in District 2," he enthused.

Known for his work as a director on the television program "Rated Korina," Chua is ready to take on a new challenge.

"When I tell people I'm Tondo, they hesitate to visit. They always say, 'Isn't it dangerous there? Isn't Tondo full of tough guys?' That's the stigma," Chua said, adding that he aims to promote Tondo the same way he has helped showcase various provinces through his programs.

"I believe it just lacks proper promotion. If I can promote other provinces through my shows, why not do the same for Tondo, where I grew up and where my family lives?"

One of his proposals is a Tondo Expo — a cultural hub featuring graffiti walls, food spots, and artistic spaces to highlight the district's rich identity.

Despite entering politics, Chua assures that he is not turning his back on his showbiz career.

"It's still going. Actually, after the election, we have a pending project with Shaina Magdayao, which we'll be shooting in Tondo. Maybe by August or September. We'll just finish this election, then we'll work on the TV series," he teased.

Meanwhile, when asked about personal relationships, Chua admitted that public service demands his full attention.

"It takes away your love life because you come home exhausted, then wake up and immediately start working again. By the time you get home, it's midnight because you attend wakes, baptisms, birthdays, and meetings. There's no time, and that can strain a relationship," Chua said.

With his passion for Tondo and commitment to his constituents, Chua is determined to bring positive change to Manila's second district.