Sheryl Cruz: Cousin Grace Poe not ready to be president

MANILA, Philippines — Actress Sheryl Cruz stands by her opinion that her cousin, Sen. Grace Poe, is not yet ready to become president.

Last week, in an interview with a daily broadsheet, Sheryl said she believes Grace is "not yet ready for the task, for the big responsibility."

The interview was published after Grace announced she is running for president in the 2016 elecctions.

READ: Poe to run for president in 2016

In an interview with ABS-CBN's news program "Bandila" on Tuesday, Sheryl reiterated her statement, saying that she feels Grace's presidential bid is "just too abrupt."

"It's just too early," she said.

Sheryl further explained: "Kung mas marunong nga na senator na si Serge Osmena who's worked closely with my cousin. Ang sinabi nga niya, she would make a fine president. Just not right now."

The actress said she is not belittling her cousin Grace.

"It's just that she would be a more effective president come 2022 and not 2016," she said.

Sheryl also denied speculations that she is being used by opposing political parties.

"I'm not here for anybody's gain, somebody's political agenda or career. Walang nag uudyok sa akin para gawin ito I have my own conscience," she said.

"You know what, masyadong mataas ang talent fee ko para ako'y udyukin nila," Sheryl quipped.

The interview happened in the sidelines of the press conference for the movie "Felix Manalo," which stars Sheryl, at the Manila Hotel.

Sheryl was slated to attend the movie press conference. However, according to reports, she chose not to grace the event and talked to members of the press in a coffee shop inside the hotel after the press conference instead.  — Chuck Smith