Maine Mendoza has once again stepped forward—this time to defend her husband, Quezon City 1st District Representative Arjo Atayde, and his family from fresh waves of criticism.
The controversy erupted after contractors Sarah and Edgardo Discaya named Atayde among lawmakers allegedly linked to corruption in flood control projects.
On Wednesday, Maine broke her silence through a heartfelt Facebook post, expressing how painful the accusations have been for their family.
“After being bombarded with vile remarks the past 48 hours, I will not pretend they don’t sting,” she admitted. “But I will also not allow lies to define who we are.”
Maine stressed that neither she nor her husband has ever lived off taxpayers’ money. Their lifestyle, she said, is backed by years of hard work, savings, and honesty.
“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 truthfully because we respect the same system we are accused of betraying.”
The actress-host admitted it is personally hurtful to be accused of using public funds when, in reality, their family has always had the financial means to support themselves even outside politics.
“It’s unfair to reduce everything that we are and everything we have worked for to that single narrative.”
Maine also made it clear: if her husband ever did something wrong, she would never cover for him. But she remains firm—Arjo has never stolen from the people.
She assured the public that her husband will fight to clear his name legally.
“When the truth comes out, I hope those who judged us so quickly—especially those who filled platforms with hate—also take a moment to realize how harsh their judgments were.”
In her closing words, Maine pointed out that while her family is being attacked, the real wrongdoers are escaping accountability.
“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.”
Her statement echoed not just a defense of her husband, but a cry for fairness and justice—reminding the public that accusations can wound deeply when hurled at the wrong people.
