In an unexpected political twist, veteran actor Dennis Padilla and former actress-politician Marjorie Barretto both lost their respective races for councilor seats in Caloocan City during the 2025 midterm elections. The once-entertainment power couple turned political aspirants suffered a disappointing defeat, fueling intense public speculation—not only about their individual campaigns but also about their strained family dynamics, especially concerning their daughter, singer Claudia Barretto.

A Double Defeat

Dennis Padilla, running for councilor in Caloocan’s 2nd District, and Marjorie Barretto, contesting in the 1st District, were both aiming for a return to the political arena. Despite high-profile names and media visibility, both candidates failed to secure the necessary votes, with observers citing political inexperience, lack of grassroots engagement, and public controversies as potential factors for their downfall.

Several analysts have pointed out that the Barretto family’s long history of internal feuds and public disputes may have played a role in alienating voters. Both Marjorie and Dennis have had their fair share of social media drama, often dragging their children—especially Claudia and Julia Barretto—into the spotlight.

Claudia’s Silence Speaks Volumes

Following the election results, netizens were quick to search for reactions from the Barretto children. Julia Barretto, as expected, maintained her usual low-key stance on political issues, posting lifestyle content unrelated to the election. But it was Claudia’s latest post—or rather, her silence—that has fans speculating.

Despite not making any direct statement about her parents’ political loss, Claudia posted a cryptic Instagram story of a peaceful seaside landscape with the caption, “Peace isn’t found in the noise.” While many interpreted it as a general life reflection, others saw it as a subtle nod to the ongoing public scrutiny of her family.

Claudia Barretto, who recently tied the knot with longtime partner Basti Lorenzo in a private ceremony, has largely stayed away from the chaos of showbiz and politics. Her recent music releases focus on introspection and healing, hinting at the emotional toll of growing up in a high-profile yet divided family.

Family Drama and Public Expectations

The Barretto family is no stranger to controversy. From legal disputes to emotional televised confrontations, the public has long witnessed the highs and lows of this celebrity clan. Dennis Padilla’s strained relationship with his children, especially Julia and Claudia, has played out in the media multiple times.

In previous interviews, both Julia and Claudia have spoken about the complexities of being caught between parents with differing versions of the truth. The public sympathy often leans toward the daughters, who have had to deal with the consequences of adult decisions made under the harsh glare of fame.

What’s Next for Marjorie and Dennis?

It remains unclear whether Marjorie and Dennis will attempt to re-enter politics or retreat once more into private life. Marjorie, once a city councilor herself, has expressed interest in public service, but sources close to her suggest that the dual loss has taken a significant emotional toll. Dennis, meanwhile, has reportedly returned to his acting commitments and stand-up comedy gigs.

What’s certain is that the public eye will continue to watch the Barretto family, analyzing every word and image for deeper meaning. And with Claudia’s growing influence as a singer and figure of calm amidst chaos, she may soon become the most powerful voice in a family that has long struggled to find unity.

Marjorie Barretto, Dennis Padilla both fall short in Caloocan
Former spouses Marjorie Barretto and Dennis Padilla, who ran for councilor in separate districts in Caloocan City, both fell short in the election.

Barretto, a former councilor of the second district, is running for councilor in the first district, which is on the slate of Mayor Along Malapitan, who has been proclaimed mayor of the city for a second term. She is in seventh place with 2,517 votes based on the partial and unofficial tally as of 4:31 a.m., Tuesday, May 13.

Her ex-husband, Dennis Baldivia or “Dennis Padilla,” ran for councilor in the second district, as an independent candidate, but like Marjorie, she also did not get enough votes after finishing 16th in the seat and garnering 7,480 votes.

It can be recalled that the issue between the two recently came to light after the wedding of their daughter Claudia Barretto. Marjorie could not refrain from speaking out after Dennis’ rant post on social media, that she was not the one who walked her son to the altar.

Meanwhile, there has been no statement from the two yet.