ABS-CBN News reporter Katrina Domingo found herself at the center of online backlash after her recent post on X (formerly Twitter) was perceived by some netizens as a veiled criticism of GMA Integrated News reporter Nico Waje, whose on-air reports recently went viral.
In her post dated July 24, Domingo wrote: “Grateful for veteran & senior journalists who have been reminding us that reporters should never indulge in being treated as celebrities — and that we should focus on our body of work instead of clout. Journalist or not, may we be judged on our substance, not our appearance.”
Grateful for veteran & senior journalists who have been reminding us that reporters should never indulge in being treated as celebrities — and that we should focus on our body of work instead of clout
Journalist or not, may we be judged on our substance, not our appearance
— Kat Domingo (@_katrinadomingo) July 24, 2025
The statement quickly drew speculation from netizens, many of whom linked the post to Waje’s recent surge in popularity, especially after his trending monsoon coverage. Some accused Domingo of bitterness, suggesting her remarks were a response to Waje’s growing recognition.
However, Domingo was quick to clarify that her message was not meant as an attack on any specific individual. Responding to a netizen who pointed out that reporters don’t control public reception, she replied: “Agree that the reporter should not be blamed for it. Just to put it on record, okay kami, wala kaming bad blood or bitterness contrary to how others are making it seem.”
Agree that the reporter should not be blamed for it. Just to put it on record, okay kami, wala kaming bad blood or bitterness contrary to how others are making it seem
— Kat Domingo (@_katrinadomingo) July 24, 2025
She reiterated in another response: “Totally agree that the journalist should not be blamed kasi wala naman siya control sa comments. But disagree sa bitterness part coz wala kaming issue personally. Even Kapuso reporters are liking and sharing the statement coz we all respect our craft.”
Totally agree that the journalist should not be blamed kasi wala naman siya control sa comments.
But disagree sa bitterness part coz wala kaming issue personally. Even Kapuso reporters are liking and sharing the statement coz we all respect our craft.
— Kat Domingo (@_katrinadomingo) July 24, 2025
Still, backlash continued. Some netizens accused her of hypocrisy, referencing ABS-CBN’s past spotlight on reporters like Atom Araullo. Others claimed she was “seeking clout” by tweeting about the ethics of journalism in the middle of another reporter’s viral moment.
While several journalists and followers expressed agreement with her broader message on valuing substance over style, others saw it as tone-deaf amid rising admiration for Waje’s professionalism and dedication.
As of writing, Domingo has not issued a formal statement regarding the reactions but maintains that her post was not meant to single out any fellow journalist.
Meanwhile, Nico Waje continues to receive praise online for his field reports and his calm yet engaging style of delivery—earning him a growing following across social media platforms.
