Social media influencer Boss Toyo has responded to criticisms regarding his attendance at President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday.
Boss Toyo, whose real name is Jayson Luzadas, was a notable presence at the Batasang Pambansa, walking the red carpet in an embroidered Barong Tagalog designed by an undisclosed Filipino designer. His appearance at the high-profile event, typically attended by politicians and foreign dignitaries, drew questions and some skepticism from netizens.
In a Facebook post, Luzadas expressed his surprise at the backlash. “Nagtataka ako bakit me mga taong nagkikwestyon bakit ako nasa SONA. Bakit bawal po ba ang isang content creator dito? Bawal po ba ang isang tulad ko dito? Bawal ba dahil hindi ako politiko? Bawal ba dahil ‘di mataas ang antas ko sa lipunan,” he wrote.
Luzadas defended his right to attend the SONA, emphasizing his role as an engaged Filipino citizen. “Masyado kayong nanghahamak ng tao. Gusto ko marinig kung ano ang sasabihin dahil isa akong Pilipino at me paki ako sa bayan ko. Wala ako nkikitang masama kung andito ako or kahit sinong tao andito. Pilipino ako at me paki ako sa bayan ko.”
‘Pinoy Pawnstars,’ the series that brought Luzadas to fame, features celebrities selling valuable memorabilia. Notable guests on the show include Diana Zubiri, Niño Muhlach, and Jiro Manio, who have showcased their prized possessions to Luzadas.
Luzadas has established himself in the entertainment industry by buying collectibles and memorabilia from celebrities, blending entertainment with cultural preservation.
