Veteran broadcaster Ted Failon came under fire following his recent comments about SB19 member Justin de Dios.
During the Monday episode of the radio program “Ted Failon at DJ Chacha sa Radyo 5” on March 4, DJ Chacha reported on the trending live performance of Justin’s new solo single, “Surreal,” on ASAP Natin ‘To.
In the midst of DJ Chacha’s update, Ted made remarks about Justin’s physical appearance, indicating that he was not familiar with the SB19 member.
He asked DJ Chacha, “Pilipino ba yan… All original yan, ‘no?”
Seemingly amused by the question, she responded, “Oo, Pinoy yan.”
Ted continued with a probing question, “All original ‘yan?”
Defending Justin, DJ Chacha asserted, “Oo, all original ‘yan, even si Justin, in fairness.”
However, Ted made a comment to clarify that he was pertaining to his song, saying, “Yung kanta ‘kako,” which was then followed by a laughing sound effect.
As DJ Chacha continued with her report, Ted interjected again to provide commentary on the shape of Justin’s nose.
The broadcaster stated, “Sana magkaroon tayo ng grupo na hindi naman mga kataasan ang tangos ng ilong para talagang original.”
Failon’s comments sparked a wave of negative reactions on social media, particularly from SB19 fans, also called as A’Tins, who found his remarks offensive and inappropriate.
Many expressed disappointment in the broadcaster for focusing on physical features rather than the artist’s talent and achievements, and demanded an apology.
Hi @tedfailon, una, walang inayos sa ilong ni @jah447798,tho if ever meron man, it shouldn't be an issue. He's there promoting his song. He's pure Pinoy & bringing pride to PH. If you're doubting, you should've confirmed muna sana beforehand. Hindi nakaka-veteran journalist.
— Gee MAPA (@jahsamaisan) March 4, 2024
Hi Sir @tedfailon why so rude naman kay Justin? Di nya kasalanan na pinanganak syang gwapo at matangos ang ilong. Him and his brothers SB19 brings pride to our country at madame din ambag sa music industry wag ganun. You can't judge someone by the way he looks. Para ka namang ano pic.twitter.com/EyV37hOmiA
— closed? ? to Open⁉️? (@stellvesterizm) March 4, 2024
Hi @tedfailon. You've crossed a line here.
— Cornics | ?? (@cornics_dedios) March 4, 2024
1. You weren't joking. You were mocking. Your snide remarks, double entendres, and rude interruptions were unbecoming of a seasoned journalist. You were disrespectful to Justin & to your cohost who was doing what she was supposed to. ++
Ted Failon:
— BB2018 ???? (@AlingBB_2018) March 4, 2024
"Pilipino ba yan?"
"All original yan, ano?"
(Yung kanta kako)
"Sana magkaron tayo ng grupo na ano no; di naman mga kataasan ang tangos ng ilong. Para talagang (ano) original''
FYI sir, JUSTIN's facial features are ALL ORIGINAL. What are you trying to insinuate? pic.twitter.com/GwjfmRY4QP
Hi @News5PH kindly remind Ted Failon that:
— MarikyatSSS (@JanMarieJueves1) March 4, 2024
-not every Filipino is pango.
-there's nothing wrong with being a mixed filipino.
-nagpa enhance man or not walang mali dun.
-SB19 is our Country's Pride.
-when you made a mistake, acknowledge it & apologize.
Thank you.
WITH ALL DUE RESPECT SIR TED FAILON..
— ARGON La PRESA (onlyfarms) ⚠️ ? (@argon_onlyfarms) March 4, 2024
Hindi po kasalanan ni Justin na matangos ilong nya, at hindi porket matangos ilong ay hindi na "original". Wag po tayong backwards mag-isip. Nag-eevolve na po ang OPM. Marami na rin pong napatunayan ang batang yan kasama ang kagrupo nya. ++
Di ko to pinansin kanina kasi ambusy ng lola mo at ayoko ma stress
— ❖ Marj ?⬛⁰¹³ (@marj_de01) March 4, 2024
Pero jusmiyo marimar sir Ted Failon ilugar natin sa tama ang mga “jokes” natin anoh? Joke ba talaga yan? Ano ba problema mo sa pinoy na matangos ang ilong? pic.twitter.com/omQvnLA3ie
When veteran journalists behave this way, it really makes me question whether there is any integrity left in Philippine media. As a senior journalist, Ted Failon, you need to be an example to the rest of the industry. Let your reporters report properly without cutting them off… https://t.co/tO0hWW03cg
— diwatangatin ⚠️?? ?⁶¹⁸ (@diwatangatin) March 4, 2024
Disappointed with Ted Failon's remarks about Justin's appearance on SB19's performance. As a veteran journalist, he should prioritize professionalism over personal comments. Let's hold him accountable! ?
— Bayanihan Today ?? (@BayanihanToday) March 5, 2024
A'TIN, let's voice out our concerns! ??#TedFailon #SB19 #Professionalism pic.twitter.com/SB1dTjxZl3
Hi @tedfailon, una, walang inayos sa ilong ni @jah447798,tho if ever meron man, it shouldn't be an issue. He's there promoting his song. He's pure Pinoy & bringing pride to PH. If you're doubting, you should've confirmed muna sana beforehand. Hindi nakaka-veteran journalist.
— Gee MAPA (@jahsamaisan) March 4, 2024
It's not Justin's fault if he born to be sooo good looking. He deserves an apology from that insecure, rude and unprofessional reporter @News5PH
— kenvestercy • mahalima ?⚠️ (@sb19kenvester) March 4, 2024
TED FAILON APOLOGIZE TO JUSTIN pic.twitter.com/RbvGGLbPb0
TED FAILON APOLOGIZE TO JUSTIN, THAT'S IT. THAT'S THE TWEET. @tedfailon
— Lorenze (@felip_twts) March 4, 2024
As of writing, Failon has yet to issue a statement or comment on the issue.