In a public gesture of contrition, motivational speaker and social media influencer Rendon Labador took to his Facebook account on May 25 to extend apologies to Kapamilya actor Coco Martin and Kapuso actor-comedian Michael V.
Labador’s video apology came in response to his recent comments about Martin and Michael V during his appearance on the Bitag Live show with broadcast journalist Ben Tulfo.
Labador’s controversial remarks targeted Michael V, referencing content creators with the statement, “Masakit na mkatotohanan na laos na kayo. We control the media now,” in response to a post on Michael V’s Instagram account.
Referring Coco Martin directly, Labador wrote on Facebook, “Coco Martin, huwag kang mag tanga tangahan.. maaring madaming blessings sayo pero sana may puso ka para sa mga maliit nating mga negosyante na apektado sa ginagawa mo. UMALIS KA NA SA QUIAPO at humanap ng sarili mong STUDIO para hindi ka nakaka storbo sa pag hahanap buhay nila.”
Labador faced severe backlash from fans of both Martin and V for his comments. As a result, he decided to offer apologies not only to the two celebrities but also to all Filipinos who were hurt and emotionally affected by the incident on social media.
“Gusto ko pong humingi ng apology, gusto ko pong humingi ng pasensya sa lahat po ng Pilipinong nasaktan at naging emotional sa mga nangyayari sa social media,” Labador stated in his video apology.
However, while expressing remorse, Labador clarified that he would not promise to refrain from making critical comments about Martin, Michael V, and other celebrities, as he prides himself on being straightforward and honest.
“Hindi ko po maa-assure kay Michael V, kay Coco Martin at sa lahat ng mga celebrity or atletang nadadamay sa lahat ng mga isyu na sinisita ko sa internet…
“Pasensya na for being too straightforward. Ganoon talaga ako pinalaki ng aking mga magulang,” Labador pointed.
Labador gained recognition for his outspokenness and his tendency to express his opinions on various issues and celebrities.
On May 17, Labador called out other celebrities, labeling them as “laos” and challenging them to engage in a podcast debate.
Both Coco Martin and Michael V have established themselves as successful figures in the entertainment industry, known for their exceptional acting skills and involvement in various projects.
Currently, Martin is starring in the TV series FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, wherein he portrays the character of Tanggol opposite Lovi Poe as his leading lady. The series premiered on February 13.
Meanwhile, Michael V is part of the GMA TV series Voltes V: Legacy, with Kapuso actors Miguel Tanfelix, Radson Flores, Matt Lozano, Raphael Landicho, and Kapuso actress Ysabel Ortega. It airs from Mondays to Fridays.