Matteo Guidicelli chides critic: I suggest you just stop talking

MANILA, Philippines – After completing the Scout Ranger training program, Matteo Guidicelli faced another challenge, this time, criticisms from netizens following his challenge to “unite” instead of “talking smack.”

Guidicelli took to social media over the weekend to share a photo of him wearing the military uniform with fellow actor Robin Padilla saluting the Philippine flag.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzj5m92J6UC/

“Salute to the flag, salute to our beautiful country! We challenge YOU, especially our colleagues in the showbiz industry. Instead of talking smack about different issues, why not unite so we may progress to make a better tomorrow. What do you think?” Guidicelli wrote as caption.

But Guidicelli’s message apparently did not sit well with a netizen.

“Lol you allied with the AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] which is probably one of the least patriotic organisations in the country. It’s more concerned with defending foreign capitalists and big businesses (e.g. mining) than safeguarding the people’s welfare,” the netizen said, replying to Guidicelli’s post.

The 34-year-old did not let this slide and replied, “I suggest you just stop talking. Thanks.”

I suggest you just stop talking. Thanks.

— Matteo Guidicelli (@mateoguidicelli) July 7, 2019

Another netizen pointed out that not everyone has the physical and mental capabilities to join the military.

“Many of us do not have the physical and mental strength to join the military. We use words to spread awareness and fight tyranny. Referring to it as simply ‘talking smack’ is problematic. I urge you to see lives of the minorities ruined by the people you’re clearly supporting,” one netizen said.

“Training for military doesn’t open your eyes to the real problem of the country. Patriotism comes in different forms,” another said.

The actor agreed that “patriotism comes in different forms,” but explained: “[There] are a lot of issues and problems we are facing. That’s a fact. It’s also a fact that our neighboring countries have a very strong military because it is mandatory. We should do the same. Are you afraid?”

True, that patriotism comes in different forms. Totally agree. Their are a lot of issues and problems we are facing. That’s a fact. It’s also a fact that our neighboring countries have a very strong military because it is mandatory. We should do the same. Are you afraid?

— Matteo Guidicelli (@mateoguidicelli) July 7, 2019

Guidicelli just finished the month-long Leadership Development and Scout Ranger Orientation Course where he received recognition for getting the highest grade among 97 trainees. (Editor: Gilbert S. Gaviola)

READ: Matteo Guidicelli completes Scout Ranger orientation course with special awards