Manila – Tensions ran high during the latest Senate hearing led by whistleblower Police Lt. Jonathan Morales, but it wasn’t just government officials in the spotlight. To the surprise of many, veteran actress Maricel Soriano made an emotional appearance—defending a confidential informant involved in Morales’ revelations as if they were her own child.

The moment came during a particularly heated exchange, when senators questioned the credibility and safety of one of the unnamed informants providing sensitive details related to alleged high-level misconduct.

Unexpectedly, Maricel Soriano stood up, voice shaking with emotion, saying:

“Kung anak ko siya, hindi ko siya pababayaan. And right now, I will stand here as if she is my daughter.”

Her words quickly went viral online, with #MaricelSoriano and #MoralesHearing climbing social media trends overnight.

Why Was She There?

Sources say Maricel had previous personal connections with the informant, who had once worked behind the scenes in showbiz before getting entangled in the alleged controversies now under Senate review. Out of concern for their safety and emotional well-being, the Diamond Star reportedly chose to accompany and support them during this critical moment.

Public Reaction: A Rare Fusion of Showbiz and Politics

Netizens were divided but emotionally stirred. Some praised Soriano’s courage and maternal instincts, while others questioned the involvement of a celebrity in a national-level investigation.

“Only Maricel Soriano can bring maternal fierceness to a Senate hearing,” one user posted.
“This is not a teleserye. But it just got real,” another commented.

Senate Response and What Happens Next

While Soriano’s appearance was not officially part of the witness list, Senate officials allowed her to speak briefly as the hearing was momentarily paused due to emotional outbursts. Sen. Grace Poe and Sen. Risa Hontiveros were seen nodding in quiet support.

As the hearings continue, it remains unclear how the confidential informant’s testimony will affect Morales’ case—but one thing is certain: Maricel Soriano’s bold gesture brought both human warmth and raw emotion into an otherwise tense political arena.