Even as he watches the political drama unfold, former senator and 2025 senatorial candidate Kiko Pangilinan remains focused on his mission: bringing food security to every Filipino home.

Speaking in a phone interview on DZXL Nationwide on Monday, Pangilinan didn’t hold back in expressing his frustration over the endless political bickering, which he said only adds to the problems of everyday Filipinos.

“There’s already too much division. Let’s stay focused on the message. Let them do their worst — we’ll do our best,” he said in Filipino. “People are tired of the noise, the mudslinging, the fighting. They want solutions, not more drama.”

Pangilinan, who has long championed food-related issues, said it’s time for candidates to stop tearing each other down and start working together to address real problems — especially the rising cost of basic goods.

“People are crying out because of skyrocketing prices. That’s the real issue. I hope they stop with the smear campaigns because they’re not helping,” he added.

He emphasized that hunger doesn’t discriminate — and neither should solutions.

“High prices hurt all of us. Hunger has no political color. We should be united in solving this crisis,” Pangilinan said.

As someone who has been the target of disinformation and black propaganda, especially in the lead-up to the May 2025 elections, he urged voters to be more discerning and to reject candidates who resort to dirty tactics.

“Those who spend millions to destroy others are part of the problem. Don’t vote for them,” he stressed. “Choose leaders who are real, honest, and focused on solutions.”

Despite the current political divides, Pangilinan said he remains hopeful. He pointed to Malacañang’s recent actions — such as the arrest of former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and the crackdown on POGOs — as proof that change is possible, even when it comes from unexpected partnerships.

“If the government can arrest Alice Guo and outlaw POGOs, it can also stop the rise of rice prices and go after corrupt traders,” he said.

Reflecting on his time as food security czar under the Aquino administration, Pangilinan promised to keep fighting for every Filipino’s right to access affordable, healthy food.

“We’re not here to protect greedy traders. We’re here to protect the people. And in all my years in public service, I’ve never been involved in any anomaly. That’s the kind of honest service I bring,” he said.

For Pangilinan, it’s not just about winning a seat in the Senate. It’s about building a future where no Filipino goes hungry.