MANILA, Philippines — Amid online backlash over their controversial age-gap romance, sports reporter Apple David publicly confirmed her relationship with 18-year-old basketball player Chad Gammad.
In a statement aired on "Frontline Pilipinas" Tuesday, David said she and Gammad have been dating for a month and emphasized that both of them are adults who are prepared to take responsibility for their relationship.
“I know it's a very risky relationship because of the age gap. But it's a risk we are both taking and I hope people can be kind enough to allow us to do that in peace,” David said in an exclusive video statement sent to the program.
“To those who are understanding, to those who are supporting and sending their messages, thank you very much. And again, to those who were offended, we're sorry, but we just ask for respect because this should be a happy time for us,” she added.
The relationship became a trending topic online after netizens raised concerns over the couple’s age difference. David is 33 years old, while Gammad turned 18 in October 2025.
David defended their relationship, saying Gammad was already of legal age when they met and rejecting accusations labeling her a “groomer.”
“I understand that he’s younger, but he’s not a minor,” she said in a TikTok Live session that later circulated widely online after users reposted clips of the broadcast.
“I’m not even a groomer. He was already 18 when I met him. I didn’t raise him,” she added.
David also appealed to critics to respect their personal decision, noting that both of their families are supportive of the relationship.
“Is it really that hard to respect other people’s decisions? We’re happy. Our families are supportive. It’s just sad that we’re happy and people are trying to ruin that happiness,” she said as translated to English.
The courtside reporter further questioned why some social media users were focusing criticism on her integrity instead of examining their own intentions.
“I understand that he’s younger, but instead of questioning my integrity, maybe question your own intentions,” she said.
David also brushed off the backlash with humor, joking that those stressing over the issue were only making themselves look older.
“I guess no matter how much noise you make, even if you take this issue to another universe, whatever bashing you throw, where will that get you? You’re the only ones getting stressed,” she said.