Veteran actress Janice de Belen has spoken out against online attacks directed at her daughter, Kaila Estrada, who became an unexpected target amid the controversy surrounding her Incognito co-stars, Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings.
Social media users have unfairly labeled Kaila as “anak ng cheater,” referencing past controversies involving her father, actor John Estrada.
In a recent interview, Janice de Belen expressed her disappointment over the toxic culture prevalent on social media, emphasizing the harm caused by such labels.
“You know, I hate that people brand other people something like that. Sana wala kang pagkakamali pag nagba-brand kang ganun. Sana wala kang pagkakamali,” Janice stated firmly.
She highlighted the damaging impact of these actions, particularly on public figures who are often targeted unfairly.
“Kasi it’s unfair. When you brand people, you damage their reputation. Unang-una, mahirap kasi pag artista ka, sa panahon ng social media — target practice ka. Wala kang magagawa, di ba?”
Janice also pointed out how the internet, originally intended to connect and educate, has devolved into a platform for spreading hate.
“Now it’s becoming a place of hate. So medyo nakaka-sad,” she said, urging for a shift toward positivity.
“Kaya pilitin na lang natin na happy thoughts ang i-post natin. Inspiring thoughts. Inspiring quotations. Kasi napakahirap na ng buhay. Let’s try to uplift each other, not destroy each other.”
Kaila Estrada is one of the leads in ABS-CBN’s upcoming teleserye Incognito, which also stars Daniel Padilla, Richard Gutierrez, Ian Veneracion, Baron Geisler, Maris Racal, and Anthony Jennings. While Kaila is not involved in the controversy between Racal, Jennings, and Jennings’ ex-girlfriend, Jamela Villanueva, her association with the project has made her an undeserving target of online criticism.
The backlash stems from the scandal involving allegations of infidelity between Racal and Jennings, with memes circulating on social media suggesting the show be renamed Cheaters.
Despite the noise, Janice remains focused on her projects, including her Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry ‘Espantaho’, which stars Judy Ann Santos.
Meanwhile, Kaila Estrada continues to prepare for the release of ‘Incognito’, which will premiere on Netflix on January 17, 2025. It will also be available on Kapamilya platforms, including iWantTFC on January 18, and will air on Kapamilya Channel, Jeepney TV, TV5, and A2Z starting January 20, 2025.
