Former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has become a familiar figure across various media platforms as he campaigns for a senatorial seat in the upcoming May elections.
Known for his action-man persona, Abalos has been making waves not just in politics but also in the entertainment industry.
Since January, Abalos has appeared on GMA’s primetime show “Batang Riles,” following his role in the afternoon drama “Lilet Matias: Attorney-At-Law.” Ten months ago, he was featured in Black Rider as the “Bagong Kasangga,” and his life story was showcased in “Magpakailanman,” where award-winning actor Sid Lucero portrayed him. His media presence extends beyond GMA, as he also hosted “Benhur Abalos: Stories of Tomorrow,” which aired on TV5, OnePH, and RPTV. On YouTube, he was featured in vlogs by personalities like Ogie Diaz, Aiko Melendez, Toni Gonzaga, and was interviewed by Karmina Constantino-Torres in “Harapan 2025.”
In these appearances, Abalos maintains his image as an “action man,” which has drawn attention from the public. When asked by Constantino-Torres about the sources of funding for his giant billboards, Abalos explained, “Ang nakakatuwa, iba-iba ang nakalagay ‘Kalaban ng Kriminal,’ ‘Gawa Hindi Salita,’… mga volunteers lang ito. Galing sa baba.” He also added, “It’s just us and some friends,” clarifying that his campaign funds come from grassroots support.
Abalos, known for his time at DILG, gained prominence for overseeing the arrests of controversial figures like Bantag, Teves, Guo, and Quiboloy, accomplishments he proudly highlights as key motivations for his senatorial run. “Those were the last things para mission accomplished na ako sa DILG,” he said, emphasizing the significance of these actions in his career.
Despite this, he has firmly denied that these arrests were “by design,” stating that lives were on the line at all the operations.
“For example, Pastor Quiboloy, how can that be by design? May mga kaso pa kami…”
Currently, Abalos holds a solid spot in the Magic 12 of senatorial candidates, ranking seventh.
