Amid accusations that he has abandoned his friend Joseph “Erap” Estrada to throw his support behind senator and presidential aspirant Manny Villar for monetary compensation ranging in the millions, veteran comedic actor Rodolfo “Dolphy” Quizon is now refusing to answer questions pertaining to politics.

In a meeting with the press during the appreciation dinner vis-a-vis launch ceremony of the 2010 Metro Manila Film Festival last February 26, Quizon expressed disappointment over the allegations.

“That’s why I really don’t want to talk about politics anymore,” said he in Filipino. “Politics here gets to be too personal sometimes. I really don’t like it.”

Quizon denied insinuations that he has an ongoing rift with Estrada.

“I love [Estrada],” he quipped.

“I don’t want to have enemies. The truth is…we really aren’t enemies… but because of this issue, because of politics… [People are now insinuating that we are.]”

Quizon asked for understanding and forgiveness from critics who had assailed his decision to support Villar.

“I hope they would be patient with me. I really didn’t want to get involved with politics but it all started with FPJ [Fernando Poe Jr.] and it just went on from there. I just hope they could forgive me for my choice [to support Villar]. He’s a friend.”

Villar was among those who had vigorously lobbied to install Quizon as National Artist, an honor that had continued to elude the 81-year-old comedian despite decades of quality work in TV and movies.

Quizon had made known his appreciation of Villar’s gesture.

Asked if he is still hopeful about receiving the honor, Quizon merely deadpanned: “[Maybe as] National Arthritis.”

Turning serious, Quizon said that he leaves the choice to the Powers That Be.

“It’s up to them. If they would still want to give me the honor, then thanks but, really, I am not optimistic. I won't keep on hoping. “