Davao City – In the golden era of Philippine showbiz, Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos sparked heated debates among fans, especially during the ’70s. Fans were either Noranian or Vilmanian! This passionate idolatry carried through generations, with epic rivalries and fan bases like Sharon Cuneta, Maricel Soriano, and Snooky Serna. Then came the unforgettable 1990s trilogy of Judy Ann Santos, Claudine Barretto, and Jolina Magdangal. Later came the queens of the 2000s – Marian Rivera, Angel Locsin, and Anne Curtis, each building their own cult following. Kathryn Bernardo, Liza Soberano, and Nadine Lustre became the icons of the 2010s. These weren’t just actresses or artists, they were lifestyles.

Today, that same level of fanaticism seems to have spilled over into politics.

It’s the Fanatic Voter, the political version of a die-hard showbiz fan. This voter supports a candidate not because of credentials or concrete plans, but out of sheer loyalty, fame, nostalgia, or family legacy. They defend their chosen one through issues, poor performance, or questionable decisions. It’s no longer about platforms — it’s about personality.

Just look at the loyal supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Even now, as he faces proceedings at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, fans continue to rally online and offline, passionately defending him. Their unwavering loyalty mirrors the devotion once seen in showbiz fandoms, showing how deeply people can identify with a public figure, regardless of the circumstances.

But what happens if every Filipino voter thinks this way? Politics becomes a popularity contest. Charisma outweighs competence. Leaders are chosen like love teams, not for their leadership but for their likability. National development gets stuck in the spotlight, and progress fades behind fanfare.

Of course, we can’t blame voters entirely. For decades, showbiz was our escape, our hope, our pride. It’s natural for that affection to cross into public service when familiar faces enter the political arena.

Still, we must ask ourselves: Are we choosing leaders based on vision or just vibes? Are we fans, or are we Filipino citizens?

Politics may carry the glitz of showbiz, but our future deserves more than just a star. It deserves substance and care.

How about you, especially Dabawenyos? Is this true? Is there such?