Actor Donny Pangilinan has spoken out amid the online backlash involving actress Shuvee Etrata, calling on the public to stop spreading hate and unnecessary comparisons.
The issue stemmed from Shuvee’s viral fangirling moment involving Donny, which drew mixed reactions—particularly from fans of Donny and his on-screen partner Belle Mariano.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Donny addressed the growing negativity online, emphasizing the need for empathy and perspective.
“Hey guys, I’m out of the country right now on a short break but I’ve been seeing a lot online. I don’t usually speak up, but I think it’s about time we stop spreading hate and constantly comparing people. There are far more important things happening in our country,” he said.
He also pointed out how online behavior can affect real people.
“I feel like we’ve gotten too comfortable throwing hate online without thinking about how that affects actual human beings who have done nothing wrong. This is for all fandoms. Artists have lives too. It’s gone below the belt. Why did we reach this point?” he added.
Donny also came to the defense of Belle Mariano, urging netizens to leave her out of the controversy.
“As for Belle, please keep her out of your narratives. She is beautiful, talented, and most importantly, has a great heart. Nothing you say or do will change that,” he stated.
Addressing the circulating videos, Donny clarified that the situation was misunderstood.
“I told shuvee the videos were going around out of shock, as I went to dinner at first thinking it was just going to be intimate and private. People forget we are all friends in this industry. Why do we keep pitting people against each other?” he explained.
He also denied accusations that he tolerates or benefits from the controversy.
“And to those who think I just enjoy the clout and people getting bashed, you clearly don’t know me. Feel free to leave. There is no space for that here. I am and never was about that,” he said.
Donny concluded his message with a call for positivity and understanding.
“Thats all from me. Hope everyone’s doing okay despite how horrible our situation is right now in the country. Thank you to those who continue to spread love. Have a blessed Holy Week! Love y’all.”
The actor, known for his respectful image in the industry, reiterated the importance of kindness and responsibility in online spaces.
