Controversial director Darryl Yap expressed happiness over the support his upcoming film ‘Love, Ngo’ has been receiving from celebrities and influencers despite his political controversies.
In a Facebook post, Yap shared that many personalities from the entertainment industry have promised to support the movie, which stars Jerald Napoles.
“Hindi ko maipaliwanag yung saya ko dahil napakaraming showbiz people ang nagpapakita ng suporta sa pelikula,” Yap wrote.
He added that although some supporters openly disagreed with his political views, they still chose to back the film.
“Kahit pa nagsisimula sa ‘Direk, di man ako agree sa political stand mo…’ nagtatapos naman sa ‘Support ako, Manonood kami… sama rin sa Premiere Night!’”
Yap also reflected on his previous film premieres, saying the upcoming premiere night for Love, Ngo would reportedly have the biggest attendance from celebrities and influencers among his projects so far.
“Memorable sa akin ang #Jowable premiere night kasi first ko yun. ‘Yung #MaidInMalacañang din, kasi super bongga. pero itong #LoveNGO na magpepremiere night sa June 2 ang may pinakamaraming artista at influencers na aattend.”
He ended his message by thanking supporters for looking beyond politics.
“Thanks guys for seeing beyond politics this time!”
The film is scheduled to open in Philippine cinemas on June 3.
Meanwhile, Yap and Napoles recently defended the movie from criticism regarding its portrayal of people with cleft palate.
During a press conference, Yap stressed that the film was created to promote awareness, acceptance, and self-love rather than mock individuals with cleft conditions. Yap also revealed that the production intentionally avoided correcting the speech patterns of characters with cleft palate, even in subtitles.
Napoles, who reprises his viral ‘Ngongo’ character from ‘Ang Babaeng Walang Pakiramdam’, admitted that some viewers with cleft palate initially found the teaser painful and triggering.
However, the actor said the same viewer also expressed willingness to give the film a chance. Napoles admitted the message changed his perspective on the backlash surrounding the movie. The actor emphasized that the film aims to uplift people with cleft palate.
Veteran actress Gina Alajar also defended the film and pointed out that society’s judgment is often the real issue.
Aside from Napoles, the movie also stars content creators Malupiton and Jack Argota.
