Actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith found herself at the center of online controversy after posting a seemingly innocent morning greeting that some netizens linked to the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
On March 13, Curtis-Smith took to Facebook to share a casual post, writing: “Magandang umaga sana masarap ang almusal ng lahat.”
However, some supporters of Duterte accused the actress of taking a subtle jab at the former president’s ongoing legal battle before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Despite her post lacking any political reference, certain netizens interpreted it as a veiled comment on Duterte’s detention in The Hague, Netherlands. “Sus, pa-double meaning ka pa eh obvious naman na masarap ang almusal mo dahil sa nangyayari. Lol.”
Others criticized Curtis-Smith personally, labeling her “laos” (washed-up) and “papansin” (attention-seeking). Some even reignited comparisons between her and her older sister, Anne Curtis, saying the latter remains the more successful and relevant star.
Curtis-Smith is not the only public figure who has been targeted by Duterte’s supporters in recent days. Celebrities Kim Chiu and Vhong Navarro were also recently bashed after their scripted spiels on ‘It’s Showtime’ were misinterpreted as statements about Duterte’s legal troubles.
In response to the growing hostility against celebrities, entertainment host and talent manager Ogie Diaz called for restraint and respect on social media.
“Walang mangyayari kung inaatake n’yo ang mga katulad nina Vhong Navarro at Kim Chiu na wala namang masamang ginagawa sa inyo.
“Nagbabasa lang naman sila ng spiels sa ‘It’s Showtime’ pero ang dating sa inyo, pinariringgan kayo.”
“Dasal po ang kailangan para sa dating pangulo, hindi tamang hinala.”
Meanwhile, Duterte remains in detention at the ICC facility in The Hague, where he faces crimes against humanity charges linked to his controversial war on drugs. His initial pre-trial hearing took place on March 14.
As political tensions continue to spill into the entertainment industry, celebrities like Curtis-Smith are finding themselves unexpectedly caught in the crossfire—even over a simple morning greeting.
