Veteran actor and film director Cesar Montano is closely following the Senate inquiry into alleged anomalies in government flood-control projects—an investigation that began several months ago and shows no sign of wrapping up soon.

Montano admits he has been angered and saddened by the revelations emerging from the marathon hearings. What weighs most heavily on him, he says, is the mention of his longtime friend, Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, as one of the politicians who allegedly received money connected to the irregular projects.

“Bilang kaibigan, nalulungkot ako…actually pinagdarasal ko siya,” Montano told Bulletin Entertainment recently, expressing his concern for Estrada.

Yet the multi-award-winning actor was quick to stress that his loyalty as a friend does not eclipse his duty as a citizen.

“All the same I want answers—real answers,” he added, underscoring his desire for a thorough and transparent investigation.

Montano and Estrada share a history that goes beyond politics. Both were among the country’s biggest action stars during the 1980s and 1990s, headlining blockbuster films that helped define Philippine cinema’s golden age. They frequently appeared at the same premieres and award nights, cultivating a friendship rooted in their parallel careers.

Estrada eventually followed the path of his famous father, former president and movie icon Joseph “Erap” Estrada, shifting from the big screen to public office. Montano, while dabbling briefly in politics himself, remained largely devoted to acting and directing.