Kapuso singer Jessica Villarubin has spoken about the recent controversy surrounding a church concert performance with fellow artist Julie Anne San Jose in Occidental Mindoro, where the latter’s rendition of ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen’ went viral and sparked public criticism.
The benefit concert, held earlier this month inside a church, became a hot topic online after netizens expressed disapproval of the song choice, considering it inappropriate for the religious venue.
Following the backlash, Julie Anne, her management Sparkle GMA Artist Center, and the church’s parish priest issued public apologies.
Jessica, who performed at the event alongside Julie Anne, addressed the situation during her appearance on ‘Fast Talk with Boy Abunda’ on Wednesday. She admitted that her involvement in the concert initially went unnoticed by the public but confirmed her presence at the event. “Na-late pong pumutok ‘yung sa ‘kin eh… Pero kasama po ako doon,” she said.
Villarubin emphasized that everyone involved had reconciled, and valuable lessons were learned.
“Nagkapatawaran na po ang lahat and maraming natuto po sa nangyari. We really apologize po sa nangyari, and we ask for prayers for healing for everyone,” she said, adding, “Next time, mas dapat naming malaman kung ano po talaga ‘yung gagawin.”
Jessica, who served as a psalmist in a church choir for 15 years, said she understands the reaction of the public. Her comments reflect the sensitivity needed when performing in a religious context.
In an earlier episode of Fast Talk, host Boy Abunda acknowledged the public’s sentiments but also highlighted the complexities artists face during performances. He praised Julie Anne’s intentions to help the church during the concert, calling attention to the singer’s goodwill.
Both Jessica and Julie Anne are members of the Queendom Divas on ‘All-Out Sundays,’ alongside fellow performers Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Thea Astley, and Mariane Osabel. The group also performed in the ‘Queendom: Live’ concert last year.
