GMA Network Senior Vice President Annette Gozon-Valdes has publicly expressed her support for Kapuso actress Shuvee Etrata, who is facing backlash after her old comments expressing sympathy for former President Rodrigo Duterte resurfaced online.
On her Instagram story, Gozon-Valdes reposted the official statement released by Pangkat Shuvee, Etrata’s fan group, which defended the actress’ political missteps as part of her learning process.
Alongside the repost, the GMA executive wrote: “We know where your heart is @shuveeetrata, we are here for you 110%.”
The controversy stemmed from a TikTok live clip where Etrata admitted she grew emotional over Duterte’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) last March.
In the video, she credited the former president’s war on drugs for helping her community, a remark that critics said downplayed the thousands of deaths linked to the campaign.
Amid the uproar, Etrata released an apology and pledged to stand with Filipinos, clarifying that she avoids political discussions because of their divisive nature.
“Huwag po kayong mag alala, natuto na po ako. Lalawakan ko pa po ang pag-iisip ko para sa ating lahat. I will continue to learn and grow. Mahal ko po kayo at mahal ko ang Pilipinas lalo na sa panahon ngayon,” she said.
However, the controversy deepened after her uncle-manager reposted a now-deleted Instagram story mocking Duterte’s critics, which fueled more criticism against the actress.
While some fans and industry colleagues have rallied behind Etrata, Gozon-Valdes’ strong show of support also drew mixed reactions online. Some netizens praised the executive’s gesture of guidance, while others accused the network of favoritism.
Despite the noise, Etrata remains active on ‘It’s Showtime’ as a semi-regular host and continues to receive backing from her management team and supporters.
