MANILA, Philippines — Actor Joshua Garcia drew criticism from netizens after reposting a TikTok video related to the ongoing impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, prompting online speculation about his political views.
The fan-made video, originally uploaded on July 11, featured highlights from the first three days of the proceedings. It defended Duterte and mocked the prosecution while carrying hashtags associated with the vice president and her supporters. Following Garcia's repost, screenshots and screen recordings of his TikTok post quickly circulated on social media, with some netizens speculating that the actor supported the Duterte camp.
The controversy intensified after screenshots showing Garcia following Vice President Duterte on Instagram also surfaced online. However, as of posting time, Garcia has unfollowed the vice president's official Instagram account, leading to further discussion among social media users. The actor's name has since trended on both TikTok and X (formerly Twitter), as netizens continued to debate the significance of his online activities.
Former presidential spokesman-turned-fugitive Harry Roque, a known ally of the Dutertes, expressed support for Garcia.
Roque wrote: "Kakampinks, huwag na kayong ma-i-stress kay Joshua Garcia(Don't be stressed about Joshua Garcia). In an industry where showing support for Inday Sara Duterte could invite cancellation, Joshua refuses to hide his political convictions. Daghang salamat, Joshua (Thank you very much, Joshua), for choosing integrity over a manufactured image. Such conviction as yours is rare, and such courage as yours deserves respect."
Garcia has not publicly addressed the repost, the circulating screenshots, or the speculation surrounding his alleged political affiliation.
