Actor Kiko Matos pointed out that former senator Kiko Pangilinan did not eat a banana leaf, contrary to what some social media users believed.
The former “Batang Quiapo” cast member responded on Saturday, April 19, to online claims that the ex-lawmaker ate a banana leaf during a visit to a farm of content creator Romeo Catacutan in San Arayat, Pampanga, on April 9.
The province is the hometown of Pangilinan’s father.
Pangilinan is seeking return to the Senate in the 2025 midterm elections. He advocates for food security and support for farmers, food producers, among others.
During his visit to Catacutan’s farm, the former senator was spotted eating food wrapped in a leaf with his hands.
Some viewers thought Pangilinan was eating a banana leaf in the video.
“A clueless Kiko Pangilinan ate inedible banana leaves. Even monkeys know not eat it,” a Facebook user wrote while sharing a video.
The viral claims eventually reached Matos, who responded by posting a reaction video to address the allegations.
In his video, Matos showed a mustard leaf (locally known as mustasa) and buro (fermented rice and fish), demonstrating how the food was eaten. He placed the buro inside the leaf.
“Alam niyo, sa mga Kapampangan, ang pagkain ng hilaw na mustasa sa buro ay isang delicacy. Parang sa Samgyupsal,” Matos said, referring to grilled pork belly in Korean cuisine.
“Na kahit hilaw ang mustasa, hindi mo ito kailangan lagain para kainin dahil masarap na siyang ganito,” he added, gesturing to the food in his food which he later ate.
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