Kip Oebanda reveals Marian Rivera only charged a day's worth of TF for 'Balota'
Film director Kip Oebanda revealed that Marian Rivera only asked to be paid one day's worth of her talent fee when they filmed Balota.
Oebanda made the revelation via X, vouching for Rivera’s generosity to friends and charities.
“Since na-expose na rin ang ibang good deeds: Marian Rivera only asked for 1-day worth of her TF for Balota, gave some of to her own crew then the rest she donated to educational charity,” he wrote.
“She’s been helping friends and charities for 2 decades quietly. Smile Train dekada na,” he added.
The revelation came after a clip from an episode of Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho featuring Odette Khan, who revealed that Rivera helped her during a health ordeal.
"Secret’s out I guess. Marian donated to Mommy Odette for her treatment despite their complicated history. Marami pang ginagawang ganyan si Marian, hindi lang public," the film director said on his X post.
In the episode, Rivera was surprised by Khan, who visited the set during her guest appearance on KMJS with her husband, Dingdong Dantes.
“Marian, I don't know what I would have done. Wala na ako sa mundong ito if you never extended your help,” the veteran actress told Rivera.
“Pagmamamahal ang maiaalay ko sa'yo at dasal,” she said.
In February, Khan was hospitalized due to pneumonia, emphysema, and edema. Her family sought financial help at the time for the mounting hospital bills.
“I could have lost my life if she never helped me. And I'm not ashamed to let the whole world know,” Khan added.
Rivera played Emmy, a public school teacher in Balota. The film follows the story of Emmy, who was among those assigned to the Board of Election Inspectors for her local precinct. When election violence broke out, she was left to guard the last copy of the election results and must outsmart those who want to sabotage the election.
Other cast members include Sassa Gurl, Esnyr, Will Ashley, Royce Cabrera, Raheel Bhyria, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Joel Saracho, Sue Prado, Mae Paner, and Gardo Versoza.
Rivera's portrayal of Emmy earned her Best Actress award at the Cinemalaya Film Festival, FAMAS Awards, The Eddys, and Dekada Awards.