Manila, Philippines – In an unexpected twist in Philippine showbiz and politics, veteran showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin has broken her silence to defend Kapamilya actress Kim Chiu against a wave of intense backlash from Duterte supporters on social media — and her words were nothing short of powerful.

The Backlash: Kim Chiu Under Fire

It all began when Kim Chiu, known for her candid opinions and active presence online, made a light-hearted comment during an interview that some netizens interpreted as a veiled political jab. Within hours, pro-Duterte netizens flooded social media platforms, branding the actress as “ignorant,” “elitista,” and even demanding that she be “canceled.”

The online attacks intensified quickly, with some bringing up Kim’s past controversial statements, twisting her words out of context, and mocking her intelligence — a topic she’s long been bullied for.

Cristy Fermin’s Strong Response: “You’ve gone too far.”

But just when things were getting out of hand, Cristy Fermin — a figure known for her unfiltered opinions — came to Kim’s defense on her show “Cristy Ferminute.” With her signature tone and sharp delivery, Fermin called out the unnecessary cruelty of Kim’s critics and condemned the toxic political division spilling into the entertainment industry.

“Bakit si Kim? Bakit kailangan siyang durugin ng mga tagasuporta ng kahit sinong pulitiko? She’s an actress — hindi siya politiko!” Fermin said sternly.

“Puwede tayong hindi sumang-ayon sa kanya, pero ‘wag naman nating sirain ang pagkatao niya.”

Fermin emphasized that freedom of expression should go both ways and reminded the public that online abuse has real consequences.

Support from Fans and Colleagues

Following Cristy’s bold stand, a flood of support for Kim Chiu began to rise. Celebrities, fans, and even political commentators praised Cristy for calling out online bullying, especially when it’s politically motivated.

“Cristy said what needed to be said.”

“Kim Chiu is not perfect, but she doesn’t deserve to be attacked like that.”

“Thank you, Cristy, for showing that criticism doesn’t need to be cruel.”

Kim Chiu herself has remained gracefully silent, choosing not to add fuel to the fire — a move many see as dignified and mature.

A Bigger Issue at Hand

This incident has once again raised concerns about how politics continues to polarize Filipinos, even in spaces like entertainment. As netizens debate online, one question lingers:

When did political loyalty become a license to tear down another person’s humanity?

The Bottom Line

Cristy Fermin’s public defense of Kim Chiu serves as a reminder that respect, empathy, and critical thinking are still crucial — even in the midst of heated political climates. Whether you’re a supporter of any administration or a fan of any celebrity, there’s a line that should never be crossed.

And as Cristy put it, “Kapag lumampas na tayo sa respeto, wala na tayong pinagkaiba sa mga taong ayaw natin.”

Kim Chiu implicated in Duterte issue: Don’t involve me, it’s like you’re taking pity on me!
Kim Chiu DENIED a netizen’s accusation that former President Rodrigo Duterte was the one she was targeting in a segment of “It’s Showtime.”

A social media user linked Kim’s spiel read on “It’s Showtime” to Duterte’s arrest under an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for what he implemented during “Oplan Tokhang.”

This happened during today’s episode of the noontime show where Kim was one of the ones reading their opening message to the audience.

“As for their feelings, the right time has not yet come for them, all we can say is they deserve it…” said Kim, followed by screams and applause from the studio audience. She continued, “Wait, I’m not done yet…you deserve to be kicked out of life!” The segment in question was their “Tawag ng Tanghalan: All-Star Grand Resbak 2025” segment.

Following this, a netizen posted on social media and accused Kim of saying that Duterte deserved to be arrested and imprisoned.

When it reached the actress and TV host, she immediately denied what the netizen said. She said she had just read what was written in their spiel.

“Hala nakakaloka! Bat ako nasilay dyan?! Like o to the M to the G!” Kim posted on her X account with a screenshot of the netizen’s post.

Kim added, “Hey! You guys are crazy. I just read our spiel script. You guys! GV GV let’s just spread kindness and good vibes.

“I’m busy with other things. My God, don’t include me in that. It’s like you’re being pitiful. The world is in trouble. ‘Let’s not add to this,” the young woman’s message continued.

On her Facebook page, the actress shared a copy of their script on “It’s Showtime” that she actually read on the program.

“Please read full context before believing the FAKE NEWS that is being spread here on Facebook.

“Sir, don’t be a part of the silent person. May God bless you and your family and your peace of mind,” Kim said. Earlier, another host of “It’s Showtime,” Vice Ganda, also strongly denied the quote card that is circulating on social media where Duterte is praised.

He reposted the said quote card on Facebook and captioned it, “FAKE NEWS! Don’t believe this spreading statement! I have not issued or said any such statement.

“Be critical and don’t just believe information that has no clear or official source. Please report!” Vice said.

Duterte was arrested yesterday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 by operatives of the PNP-CIDG on the basis of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court. Last night, authorities brought the former president to The Hague in The Netherlands where he will face the charges he faces.