Veteran TV host Joey de Leon is once again making headlines after a joke he made on ‘Eat Bulaga’ drew mixed reactions online.
The moment happened during a segment featuring viral Pampanga-based contestant RJ Perkins, who gained attention for confidently walking in a male pageant despite not having the typical muscular physique associated with such competitions.
While defending RJ from bashers, Joey made a remark about body standards: “Hindi na uso ‘yung abs. Wala na nga ‘yung abs eh.”
His co-host Vic Sotto quickly reacted: “Iba naman ‘yun eh!”
Joey then followed it up with a punchline referencing a major network: “ABS-CBN pala ‘yun. Sorry, sorry.”
The comment quickly circulated on social media, with netizens expressing differing opinions.
Some criticized the joke, calling it unnecessary and insensitive. Others pointed out that the issue involving the network has long passed. Meanwhile, some defended the host, saying the joke was simply part of his humor.
The reference struck a nerve among viewers, particularly supporters of ABS-CBN, which has faced ongoing challenges since losing its broadcast franchise in 2020.
Despite this, the network continues to operate as a content provider through partnerships with other platforms and networks.
Joey de Leon is known for his spontaneous and often edgy humor, which has long been part of his hosting style. However, as seen in this latest incident, such remarks can still spark debate—especially when they touch on sensitive industry issues.
