Filipino-British singer and actor Jarren Garcia has become the center of controversy following his guest reporter stint on ABS-CBN’s ‘TV Patrol’, where he covered the wake of Philippine cinema icon Gloria Romero.
His delivery, fluency in Tagalog, and enunciation became hot topics on social media, with some netizens criticizing his performance, while others defended him.
A clip of Garcia’s report quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), drawing mixed reactions. Some viewers questioned ABS-CBN’s decision to have Garcia report on such a solemn occasion, given that he is still relatively new to the industry and has limited fluency in deep Tagalog words.
Netizens expressed their concerns about Garcia’s struggles with pronunciation and fluency, noting that it affected the solemnity of the segment.
“gyouryar ruemeroew” GIRL SHUT UP https://t.co/SPRMnZGkZm
— ❑ (@ethelcaintayo) January 29, 2025
ppl making the whole point abt him growing up abroad when it’s just about delivering ur lines properly while reporting on the burial of a well respected actress in the industry ur trying to enter.
it’s constructive. u don’t have to justify everything ur fave does. https://t.co/pJI3G9M6kG
— (@06zchicken) January 29, 2025
this dude is prob nice but for the love of the country, if you’re a halfie who wants to become an actor here at least have the decency to learn our language. if your gonna milk this country, at least learn speaking in straight filipino https://t.co/Bg0baSUNHG
— (@cincosunn) January 29, 2025
Others argued that TV Patrol’s decision to cast a celebrity guest reporter over professional journalists reflected a prioritization of viewership over journalistic integrity.
ABC CBN , there’s a better way to introduce your new generation of actors. ♀️
Instead of having them deliver news in a mediocre and unprofessional manner, let them showcase their talents in dramas. This is a disrespect to broadcasters who put in the effort to hone their craft. https://t.co/0ssJh3W2kJ
— pega (@pegaseii) January 29, 2025
genuine question:
hindi ba sila pwede tumanggi pag alam nilang di nila kaya iexecute ng maayos?also, hindi rin ba nahihiya yung mga nagsasalang sakanila on a national TV na ganyan ipapakita ng artist nila? legit nakaka walang respeto sa binabalita.
it’s NEWS! not talkshow. https://t.co/1PjCNqdx5M
— Rafael (@thenameisRaf) January 29, 2025
While criticism flooded social media, many came to Garcia’s defense, highlighting that his British upbringing made Tagalog naturally challenging for him.
super laki ng potential ni jarren garcia na maging big star ng abs-cbn but they’re overselling him too much… like… pwede bang baby steps muna para di nabubulol on tv haha https://t.co/76d3a9mdTj
— mustard (@mustardsauuuce) January 29, 2025
This comment reflects frustration over Jarren Garcia’s mispronunciation while reporting on Gloria Romero’s passing. The criticism seems to stem from the belief that proper pronunciation is a matter of respect, especially when discussing a well-respected icon.
However, while… https://t.co/HqZKBCtON3
— Toni Flower (@momshiedivine) January 29, 2025
Others also pointed out that Garcia did not intend to disrespect the event and was simply fulfilling a task given to him by the network.
Born in London in 2007, Jarren Garcia first gained recognition as a contestant on ‘The Voice Kids UK’ in 2020. He later gained popularity in the Philippines through ‘Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11’, making him one of the fast-rising stars in local entertainment.
As of writing, ABS-CBN has not issued an official statement regarding the controversy.
