MANILA, Philippines — Veteran movie director Mike De Leon, known for movies such as “Batch 81” and “Citizen Jake,” criticized the recently concluded ABS-CBN Ball.
In the Facebook page of “Citizen Jake” where he is the administrator, Mike asked if the people really needed the glamorous ball. He compared it to Imelda Marcos’ parties back then.
Related Stories
“Many people will not like this question but I have to ask it – In these dark times of murder and hunger, who really needs the ABS-CBN ball? Bread and Circuses again a la Imelda Marcos,” the veteran director wrote.
Netizens commented on the post.
“Direk kaya love na love kita eh! U got that spunk to speak out... Kaso privately funded po iyan hindi government funds,” a netizen said.
"Thank you Geri, pero hindi nga yun ang point. Privately funded nga, but there are more sensible ways to promote a noble cause. Parang yung sinabi ni Marie Antoinette nung naghihirap na ang mga Pranses at walang makain, 'Let them eat cake,'" the director replied.
"It was a fund raising event at the same time for abused children," another netizen commented.
"So why exploit abused children further? Anyway, as I said, many will not like the question. Pero please naman, don't be naive. It's just showbiz exploitation. Kung Hollywood pa, ok lang siguro, but in third world country like ours?" De Leon replied.
ABS-CBN Ball aimed to raise funds for Bantay Bata 163 and to re-launch Bantay Bata’s Children’s Village in Norzagaray, Bulacan.
The celebrities who graced the event wore blue ribbons to promote prevention of child abuse.
“Bato-bato sa langit... ang tamaan... At salamat sa lahat ng mga nag-comment. It should now become even more clear to thinking Filipinos that religion is no longer the opium of the people, it is showbiz. People now become more upset by a legitimate question about priorities (like this ball) than the politcal helhole we all find ourselves in presently. We are truly a damaged people. Kaawa-awang Pilipinas...” Mike said.