MANILA — Actor-politician and Senator Robin Padilla said he is reconsidering earlier plans to retire from public life, as he weighs spending more time with his wife Mariel Rodriguez and their children.

In a report, Padilla made the remarks as a guest on the April 24 episode of Bilyonaryo News Channel’s “Politiko Talks,” where he was also asked about reports that he is selling the family’s Museo de Padilla in Quezon City.

The property, formerly the Padilla family home, now operates as an events venue featuring traditional Filipino architecture with Spanish influences, including a music room, meeting hall, conference hall, and three ballrooms.

“2010 pa nung naging lovey-dovey kami ni Mariel, gusto ko nang mag-retire, magpunta sa abroad,” Padilla said, recalling that he and Rodriguez had previously traveled to the Netherlands and Germany.

Looking ahead to the 2028 elections, Padilla said he may step away from politics if the country’s system does not change, expressing frustration with the current setup.

“I’m sorry, patawarin niyo ako, hindi ko nakikita ang future [sa] sistemang ito,” the senator said.

During the interview, co-host Atty. Jesus Falcis noted that Padilla had earlier considered retiring in Brunei, where he and Rodriguez conducted an ocular visit. However, he said Rodriguez found the country too hot.

Padilla also mentioned that Iceland was considered but deemed too expensive, while Thailand was dismissed after he joked that his wife might not agree to living there.

“Falcis also suggested Thailand but Robin shut that down, quipping that Mariel might strangle him if they moved there,” the report noted.

Host Marichu Villanueva raised speculation that the sale of Museo de Padilla could be linked to preparations for the 2028 elections, but Padilla denied this, saying he does not need fundraising and claimed he topped the 2022 Senate race without campaign expenses.

He added that while he is open to selling the property, he prefers that any purchase be made in US dollars.

“Wala akong tiwala sa pesos, mamaya kung saan pa galing ‘yan… Okay lang basta huwag galing sa flood control [projects],” Padilla said.