Comedian and seasoned noon-time show host Joey De Leon finds himself at the center of controversy once more due to his perceived insensitive remarks, sparking outrage and heated discussions across social media platforms.
De Leon, known for his history of making comments deemed controversial and offensive, has recently come under scrutiny for jokes related to suicide.
The controversy erupted following a recent episode of TVJ on channel 5, its new broadcasting home, where De Leon allegedly made a thoughtless comment about suicide.
In a viral clip from the noontime show “E.A.T.,” a contestant struggled to provide answers to a question about items that could be placed around a person’s neck.
Failing to respond, De Leon interjected with the word “lubid” or rope on two occasions, a response that many viewers found insensitive in the context of mental health and suicide.
Social media was abuzz with criticism, with one X user, ALTStarMagic, expressing their dismay: “This is a trigger warning clip about suicide, and Joey De Leon can’t seem to control his remarks. Really? Joking about things that are hung around the neck is ‘lubid’? REALLY, JOEY DE LEON???? LALA SOTTO, WHAT SAY YOU????”
Some netizens took the opportunity to draw a comparison between De Leon’s noontime show, TVJ, and “It’s Showtime,” which was recently suspended by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) over a segment titled ‘Isip Bata.’
Expressing their discontent, an X user commented, “It’s Showtime got suspended for doing something completely normal. Joey De Leon, again, making problematic insensitive jokes about mental health, and their show still goes on.”
In response to the controversy, netizens have called on MTRCB Chair Lala Sotto to investigate the matter further.
One X user, Justine, posted, “If you are trying to be a comedian, well, you’re not funny, Joey De Leon! The issue of suicide by hanging is no joke! Lala Sotto, what’s the plan here?”
Jai Caballar also chimed in on the platform, stating, “Joey De Leon is more often offensive than funny (if at all). Big boomer energy, minus IQ points.”
As the online outrage continues to grow, Joey De Leon’s remarks have ignited a broader conversation about the responsibilities of public figures and media personalities in addressing sensitive issues such as mental health and suicide.
The Daily Netizen 