Content creators Shaun Pelayo and Crissa Liaging, collectively known as Habibi, are currently under fire after airing frustrations over a lack of recognition for their efforts in promoting Siquijor—drawing flak from netizens, including fans of actress and TV host Anne Curtis.
The controversy began after Anne’s recent trip to Siquijor went viral on social media. The “It’s Showtime” host shared scenic videos from her vacation, including a now-iconic clip of her walking across Cambugahay Falls in what netizens dubbed a “fairy walk.” Her Instagram and TikTok posts showcasing Siquijor’s natural beauty amassed millions of reactions, further fueling interest in the island.
Following Anne’s viral moment, Pelayo and Liaging went live on Facebook on April 18, where they seemingly expressed disappointment about not receiving any acknowledgment from the local government for their long-standing content promoting the island.
“Ako, promoting the island again pero walang acknowledgement,” said Pelayo in Bisaya, which Liaging supported by adding, “If I were the LGU, I would say thank you for always promoting Siquijor.”
@positivethoughts386 Shaun on promoting Siquijor : “Walay acknowledgement” #habibi #crissa #shaun #fyp #siquijor
The couple’s remarks were quickly criticized as “entitled” and “self-serving,” with netizens pointing out that Siquijor’s charm predates any influencer content. Some argued that true promotion should be done without expecting rewards. Others emphasized that Anne Curtis herself did not seek credit despite the overwhelming attention her posts brought.
Even former Comelec commissioner and PWD party-list nominee Rowena Guanzon weighed in on the issue. “Sino ka teh?” she posted on Facebook, noting that Siquijor’s mystique has long captivated visitors—even before influencers and celebrities set foot on the island.
Amid the backlash, Shaun Pelayo addressed the issue through a video message posted on April 22. He apologized to those offended and said he takes full accountability for his comments, which he described as a “throwaway line” made during a casual livestream.
“If it has offended anyone, I apologize. It was never my intention to bring any negativity,” he said. Pelayo also denied certain reports circulating about them online, calling them exaggerated or false.
The vlogger went on to express gratitude to Siquijor locals who continue to support him and his family. “My heart is in Siquijor. I moved here with my mom, built a home here. This is where I want to raise my family,” he added.
However, he condemned the extent of the backlash, revealing that he and his wife received death threats following the incident. “That’s unacceptable on any level,” he said.
As of writing, Anne Curtis has not released any public response to the controversy.
