In light of recent high-profile sexual harassment allegations within the entertainment industry, actors Kira Balinger and LA Santos have publicly shared their positive experiences, expressing relief at not having encountered such abuse in their careers.

The topic of sexual harassment has surged in prominence following revelations from several individuals, including Sparkle artist Sandro Muhlach, singer Gerald Santos, actor Ahron Villena, and a TV5 news researcher, who have reported instances of harassment by industry professionals.

During a media conference for their upcoming movie, ‘Maple Leaf Dreams,’ Balinger and Santos were asked about their views on the ongoing issue of harassment in showbiz.

“Awa ng Diyos po I’ve never had that experience and I don’t think LA (sabay tingin sa binata) also had that and it has to stop!” Balinger stated. “Marami po akong naririnig you know (that) it’s an industry secret that only industry people knows mostly and it has to stop.”

Balinger emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and working hard, rather than resorting to unethical means to achieve success. “If you have a dream (sumikat) stop trying you know to take the short cut, you know what I mean. If you have a dream, you work hard, you have to work hard not to take short cut just to get you up there. And I think people who had experience this come forward,” she advised.

Reflecting on her early career, Balinger mentioned that she never received offers that compromised her dignity. “I cannot, I will not (accept). I love my craft. I will not sacrifice by dignity just fot this,” she added.

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@Kira 🌻 emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and working hard, rather than resorting to unethical means to achieve success. #KiraBalinger

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Although she has heard of others facing harassment, Balinger does not personally know them. “Wala naman po akong kaibigan na nakaranas ng ganu’n pero I’ve heard for few others but I cannot say (their names) of course, it’s not my story to tell,” she explained. Despite her disappointment in learning about such practices, Balinger remains resolute in pursuing her career.

“Hindi na lang sana pinag-uusapan, pero wala, e, there’s two sides of the story, the good and the bad, nasa sa ’yo na kung paano how you stay away from it,” Balinger said. She assured that she would speak out if faced with harassment. “Wala po at kung merong mag-attempt, malaki po ang panga ko and I’m going to come forward, I’m sorry, I cannot stay quiet about this and bahala na basta I cannot stay quiet about it.”

Santos echoed Balinger’s sentiments, expressing concern over unethical behavior in the industry. “Well ‘yung mga ganu’ng salbaheng tao kilala n’yo naman kung sino kayo at ‘wag na kayong magpakita sa mundong ito at sana bumalik sa inyo kung anuman ang ginawa n’yo,” Santos said.

 

The discussion came during the promotion of ‘Maple Leaf Dreams,’ which is scheduled to premiere in Manila from September 4 to 8 as part of the Sinag ng Maynila Film Festival, before its wider release on September 25.

Balinger described the challenges of portraying an OFW, emphasizing the difficulties of starting a new life abroad. Santos reflected on his character’s journey, noting the significance of support from loved ones.

The film, which also features Joey Marquez, Snooky Serna, Ricky Davao, and other notable actors, explores the trials and triumphs of its characters amidst the immigrant experience.