Miss Philippines Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma weighed in on the ongoing online controversy involving actress-comedienne Kakai Bautista, expressing her disapproval of the latter’s defense of content creator and courtside reporter Apple David.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on July 4, Joy reacted to Kakai’s remarks supporting Apple’s relationship with 18-year-old basketball player Chad Gammad, which has sparked widespread debate because of their 15-year age gap.
Referring to the frequent comparisons between her and Kakai, Joy wrote: “Simula ngayon mao-offend na ako ‘pag sinabing kamukha ko siya. Madam, what is this?”
Her post quickly drew attention online, with many netizens linking it to the backlash surrounding Kakai’s recent comments.
The controversy began after Kakai defended Apple against critics questioning her relationship with Chad.
“Bat galit na galit kayo kung nagkagusto ang 18 years old sa kanya? BUHAY NYA YAN.”
She also argued that if people truly believed something illegal had occurred, they should formally report it.
“Kung sa tingin n’yo na masama nga ‘yong ginagawa, mag-file kayo ng complaint.”
In a follow-up video, Kakai said she had researched the issue and found no legal complaint against the couple.
“I researched everywhere, wala namang nag-complain about their relationship. Kayo lang ang maingay.”
She maintained that she was simply happy for the couple and urged critics to allow them to live their lives.
“Whatever it is that they have, I’m happy for them… Hayaan n’yo nang maging masaya ‘yong tao.”
Kakai’s statements drew mixed reactions online. While some social media users agreed that the relationship is a private matter, others criticized her position and accused her of enabling grooming, arguing that legality and morality are separate issues.
Joy Barcoma’s post added another voice to the public discussion, with many netizens interpreting it as a clear expression of disagreement with Kakai’s stance.
The controversy first gained traction after Apple David publicly shared photos of herself with Chad Gammad and later confirmed their relationship. Apple has since denied allegations of grooming, maintaining that those who believe any wrongdoing has occurred are free to bring the matter before the proper authorities.
As of writing, no legal complaint has been publicly announced in connection with the relationship, while discussions continue across social media regarding the ethical and legal issues raised by the controversy.
