MANILA – Actress and television host Maine Mendoza on Wednesday issued a statement defending her husband, Quezon City Rep. Arjo Atayde, against allegations of corruption, saying their family’s life has never depended on public funds.

“I am well aware of the accusations, criticisms and judgments being thrown at my husband, me, and our family. After being bombarded with vile remarks the past 48 hours, I will not pretend they don’t sting, but I will also not allow lies to define who we are,” Mendoza said.

She stressed that neither she nor Atayde had relied on government money. “Not a single part of our life has been built on taxpayers’ money. Everything we have comes from years of work and savings. We pay our taxes, and we pay them truthfully, because we respect the same system we are accused of betraying,” she added.

Mendoza also denied accusations that Atayde had stolen from the public. “I will never accept the narrative that accuses us of stealing and living off taxpayers’ money. That is not who Arjo is, that is not who I am, and that is not who we are—no amount of noise and accusations will ever make it true,” she said.

“If Arjo ever did anything dishonest, if he were truly guilty, I certainly wouldn’t defend him and cover for him. Accuse him of other things if you wish, but not of stealing from people—that is one line he has never crossed, and never will,” Mendoza added.

She said that photos and stories circulating online have been taken out of context. “Let’s not forget that perception is not always reality. Narratives can be twisted so easily, and many are quick to believe what fits their perspective. But the truth always finds its way to light and that’s what we are holding on to,” she said.

Mendoza also urged the public to allow due process to take its course. “Legal actions will be taken, and Arjo will clear his name by proving his innocence. Let’s allow due process to run its course before we condemn. God knows the truth, and we stand with clean hands,” she said.

She ended her statement by pointing out that not all public officials are corrupt. “Arjo has nothing to hide. He has never been guilty of stealing. I’ll end with this, not all politicians are corrupt—some are just convenient targets. The real villains are celebrating quietly in the shadows,” Mendoza said.