Team DailyPedia
Actor Joshua Garcia has reportedly unfollowed Vice President Sara Duterte and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Instagram following online criticism over his recent social media activity.
The issue began after netizens noticed that Garcia had apparently reposted and reacted to a TikTok video featuring highlights from the impeachment trial of Duterte. The video, titled ‘My Favorite Highlights from Sara’s Impeachment Trial (Days 1–3),’ included hashtags associated with Duterte supporters, leading some social media users to speculate about the actor’s political leanings.
Screenshots of the repost quickly circulated online, with some netizens labeling Garcia a “DDS” or Diehard Duterte Supporter. Others, however, argued that reposting or following public officials on social media does not necessarily indicate political affiliation or endorsement.
Amid the controversy, several users claimed that Garcia’s Instagram account no longer follows Duterte or Cayetano, fueling further discussion online. Some critics described the reported move as “damage control,” while others said the actor has the right to decide whom he follows on social media.
Comments on X reflected the divided reactions. Some accused Garcia of changing his social media activity only after being criticized, while others defended him, saying the issue was being blown out of proportion.
Adding to the conversation, Garcia’s fan organization, Tropang Joshua, released a statement urging the public not to jump to conclusions based on a single repost.
The group said the reposted TikTok video was “intended solely for entertainment purposes and not as a political statement.” It added that the content should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political figure or as a reflection of the actor’s personal political beliefs.
“Joshua has always shown love and respect for the Philippines and for every Filipino. It is unfair to define his principles based on a single repost that was made without political intent,” the statement read.
The fan group also appealed for respectful discussions and discouraged the spread of misinformation, emphasizing that Garcia should not be judged based on speculation.
As of writing, Joshua Garcia has not personally addressed the controversy or confirmed whether he intentionally unfollowed Duterte and Cayetano. His management has likewise yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter.
