In what was supposed to be a heartwarming gesture of generosity, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez found herself at the center of controversy after donating a luxurious Hermes bag worth half a million pesos to a charity auction. But instead of praise, the iconic singer was hit with a wave of criticism, judgment, and even ridicule—leaving fans and netizens asking: what really went wrong?

A Grand Gesture… Met With Outrage

The controversy began when Regine’s team proudly announced that she had donated one of her prized Hermes handbags to help raise funds for a children’s medical foundation. The auction, which featured luxury items from several celebrities, aimed to provide financial aid for underprivileged patients in need of critical care.

While many applauded her generosity, others took a harsher stance, calling the donation “out of touch,” “flaunting wealth,” and even “performative.” Some questioned why she didn’t just give cash instead, or quietly support the cause without drawing attention to the brand or the bag’s jaw-dropping price.

“P500,000 could buy medicine and food for so many,” one commenter said.
“A rich person’s bag doesn’t automatically translate to charity,” another added.

Unfair Backlash or Misunderstood Intentions?

Supporters quickly came to Regine’s defense, arguing that selling the bag for charity was a smart and generous move, turning material luxury into life-saving funds. They pointed out that the criticism seemed rooted in jealousy, double standards, and a tendency to tear down women in power.

Celebrity stylist and close friend of Regine commented:

“She didn’t need to do this. She gave up something personal and valuable because she cares. It’s sad that people focus on the brand instead of the act of kindness.”

Regine Breaks Her Silence

In a short but firm statement posted on social media, Regine addressed the backlash:

“I donated something that I loved and cherished, hoping it would do more good in someone else’s hands. I never imagined such kindness would be twisted.”

She continued by thanking those who still saw the good in what she did, saying,

“It breaks my heart that we live in a world where even generosity is questioned.”

The Bigger Question: When is Generosity ‘Too Much’?

This controversy has sparked a larger debate across the Philippines—is it possible to be “too rich” to give? When celebrities make public donations, are they doing it for the right reasons, or are they simply feeding their image?

Melai Cantiveros Receives a Designer Bag Worth P130,000 from Regine Velasquez

The comedienne said she felt like a “Summa Cum Laude” with her new arm candy! LOL!

Melai Cantiveros took the internet by storm after her viral moments at the Asia Artist Awards 2023. The comedienne, who was over the moon to be in close proximity to her favorite Korean acts, brought home a Best Actor trophy for her leading role in the film Ma’am Chief. We’re certain you’ve come across her hilarious acceptance speech on your feeds by now!

To congratulate her on such a feat, her Magandang Buhay co-host and close friend Regine Velasquez got her a new designer bag. As expected, just watching Melai unbox the gift already has us rolling on the floor!

LOOK: Melai Cantiveros Unboxes New Designer Bag from Regine Velasquez

“You know what, ‘di lang ako first honor [o] valedictorian [sa gift na ito], summa cum laude na ako,” the actress quipped, referencing her soundbites at the AAAs. What emerged from the box was a classic Christian Dior Book Tote rendered in the brand’s original Around the World motif. The bag, according to Melai, was what socialites would usually wear on their idyllic beach trips. She was the most adorable as she modeled her new piece of arm candy!

TikTok/Darla Sauler

SHOP: The Exact Designer Melai Cantiveros Got

We totally see the comedienne rocking this tote on her future vacays. A subtle switch-up from Dior’s iconic Oblique or Toile de Jouy prints, this piece is the perfect bag for global sensations such as Melai.

Dior

Medium Around the World Book Tote in Blue, resells for $2300 (approximately P128,344.60), DIOR, fashionphile.com

*Note: Some of the prices mentioned in this article have been sourced from authorized resellers and not directly from the brand’s official website. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is important to note that prices may vary depending on the reseller and the region. We encourage readers to visit the official brand website or consult authorized resellers for the most up-to-date pricing information.