Sparkle GMA Artist Center has issued an official statement regarding the recent backlash surrounding Julie Anne San Jose’s performance at the Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Parish in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro.
The event, part of the ‘Heavenly Harmony Concert (Harana para kay Maria),’ sparked criticism after a video surfaced showing the singer performing songs such as ‘Edge of Glory’ by Lady Gaga and ‘Dancing Queen’ by ABBA inside the church.
In its statement, Sparkle GMA Artist Center took responsibility for the incident and clarified that the coordination with the event organizers was its responsibility, not Julie Anne’s. The agency emphasized that the singer, a devout Catholic, was only fulfilling her professional commitments and had no intention of disrespecting the church or its members.
“Julie Anne only fulfilled her duties and commitment as a true professional. She is a devout Catholic and had no intention of disrespecting the Church or its members,” Sparkle stated.
The statement added, “We are truly sorry to those we have offended. We hope that this puts the issue to rest. We apologize to Julie Anne as well. Moving forward, we will be more vigilant in our coordination efforts to ensure such incidents do not happen again.”
READ: Sparkle GMA Artist Center’s official statement regarding Julie Anne San Jose’s recent performance at the Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Parish. pic.twitter.com/nU58e48Cor
— Sparkle GMA Artist Center (@Sparkle_GMA) October 9, 2024
The performance took place on October 6 and was organized to raise funds for the development of the parish. Despite its charitable purpose, some social media users were outraged by the event being held inside the church, questioning the appropriateness of the songs and attire. One commenter pointed out the religious significance of the venue, stating, “We are from Zamboanga City, and Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar is also our Patron, but we would never hold such a concert inside our churches.”
This does not belong at Mass…ever pic.twitter.com/PMc3s43Q5Y
— ☩JMT☩ (@SecretFire79) October 9, 2024
Another user criticized the song choices, labeling them as inappropriate for a religious setting: “Sacrilege! The organizers should have agreed on what songs are suitable, especially since it was held inside the church.”
Despite the criticism, the church clarified that the concert’s proceeds were intended for parish development. As of now, Julie Anne San Jose has not issued a personal statement addressing the controversy.
