Actress Liza Soberano has found herself under fire from some netizens after expressing support for Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto’s appeal to avoid violence amid the protest targeting the Discaya family compound in the city.
The controversy stemmed from a video showing militants hurling objects at the gates of St. Gerrard Construction, a company linked to the Discayas, who are under public scrutiny over alleged “ghost projects.”
Mayor Sotto posted on Facebook urging protesters to find peaceful ways to express grievances, warning of the risks of collateral damage. “Hindi naman yung mga corrupt ang masasaktan pag bumigay ang gate, hindi rin sila ang matatamaan ng bato. Nag-aalala ako para sa mga security guard, trabahador, at ralyista mismo,” he said.
Liza echoed this sentiment on X (formerly Twitter), posting an image of Sotto with the caption “Let’s Not Resort to Violence.” She added: “Totally agree with this. There is a better way to get our sentiments across without creating collateral damage to the people who are just trying to make a living for their families.”
Her statement, however, drew backlash from some users who took issue with her wording.
“Trying to make a living for their families???? Remember this Liza, the Discayas drew first blood,” wrote @jovievilar.
“So anong gagawin Liza? Care to share?” added @_airabelle.
Others criticized her for allegedly meddling in politics. “Woah, woah, the amerikana sharing her sentiments about Pinas? Totoo yan?” tweeted @hisenbergn.
Some netizens, however, came to her defense, clarifying that her remarks appeared to be directed at workers and bystanders rather than the Discayas themselves.
“She’s literally talking about the workers, the guards, at mga ralyista na makakasama sa gulo just like what Vico said! Puro mali na lang ba hahanapin niyo kay Hopie??” explained @krjcrylqjb.
As of writing, Soberano has yet to issue a response to the criticisms.
