Stars given ‘gag order’ on Pacman issue
Some celebs begged off from commenting on the raging issue about Manny Pacquiao’s rift with the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community.
As much as they would want to share their sentiments with media, some stars have been “ordered” by higher-ups to refrain from doing so.
Could it be because the bigwigs are wary that their wards might also lose endorsements like what happened to Pacman if they make a faux pas?
It’s better to be safe from the knockout punch!
Indeed, Manny has endured all kinds of blows as a boxer, but nothing must have bruised him more than the controversy he is embroiled in because of his derogatory statements regarding the LGBT community.
Pacman has turned into “YuckMan.” Instead of getting ready to rumble, the People’s Champ stumbled and fumbled.
Be that as it may, the honor he brought to our country in the field of boxing remains. But for now, the hysterical reactions to his recent booboo eclipse his historic achievements.
Although he has made a public apology, Manny still has to roll with the punches.
Celebs weigh in on the Pacman issue:
AIKO Melendez
Aiko Melendez: There are two sets of moral [values] that our church and government must provide and protect. Citizens have the right to marry regardless of their gender and religion. I’m a born-again Christian, but I must consider… even God gave us the freedom of choice.
MARK Bautista
Mark Bautista: After watching some of his recent interviews, I must say he really is a fighter—so brave and strong in his conviction. I admire him for that, but it was just the choice of words that should have been carefully expressed since the issue is very sensitive and, of course, universal. With that kind of thinking and attitude, I’m sure he’ll get through it. Let’s just continue to love and respect each other… as that is the greatest commandment given.
Noel Cabangon: Manny’s statement is a blatant disregard for LGBT [rights] and a clear disrespect for their guaranteed human right.
As a public official, it is a pity that his knowledge of the Constitution, particularly on the Bill of Rights, is limited, if not nil. We should not allow his kind to be voted into the Senate. He should use his common sense, [that is,] to remain a boxer.
Kim Atienza: Pacquiao is like a brother to me, and I love him dearly. He was coming from a deep conviction to stand by and share his beliefs, though he made a mistake in the way he expressed himself. The Bible teaches us to share the word “with love and respect.”
My sins—vanity and pride—are just as unacceptable to God as homosexual sin, so who am I to condemn? Christ commanded us to love sinners. He hangs out with them to give them light.
As Christians, we are to be like Christ—love the sinner, but hate the sin. Also, no one can be worse than animals. The Bible teaches us… to have dominion over them.
Jim Paredes: Scary that a person may be adored by the public and condemned the next because of one statement.
I accept Manny’s apology and recognize his humility. We all make mistakes. No exception. But I still would not vote for him. I wish him a more loving understanding of God’s love for everyone.
Wency Cornejo: It is a known fact that so many wars have been waged because of differing beliefs, and that’s the reason I don’t believe in organized religion.
I refuse to accept that a book, line or verse can define me as a human being. I cannot condone acts that debase my fellow man. My one real truth in life is love, and anything that goes against that is what I call an abomination.
Mr. Fu: His stand on same-sex marriage is fine with me. That’s his choice. But overanalyzing the issue and giving offensive statements are not acceptable. Respect for each other is a must. Gays like me may have animalistic appeal, but the masahol pa sa hayop tag is too harsh.
