Some netizens took issue with ABS-CBN reporter Katrina Domingo’s online post about the celebrity treatment of journalists, which many perceived as an alleged shade at GMA News reporter Nico Waje, who recently went viral for his typhoon coverage.
Nico gained social media fame for his live reports during Typhoons Crising and Dante, with netizens praising both his professionalism and good looks.
Content featuring the male reporter led to endearments such as “love,” “baby” and “honey” as well as titles like “pambansang boyfriend” and “king of updates,” to flood his comment sections.
His online popularity even sparked a social media poll from radio station Yes FM Manila, comparing Waje to other “fan-favorite” reporters like Atom Araullo, Ariel Rojas and Anjo Pertierra.
However, controversy sparked when Domingo posted what many believed was a jab at Waje’s sudden online fame.
On her X account, Katrina wrote, “Grateful for veteran & senior journalists who have been reminding us that reporters should never indulge in being treated as celebrities — and that we should focus on our body of work instead of clout. Journalist or not, may we be judged on our substance, not our appearance.”
Though the post didn’t name Nico, its timing led online users to connect it to the growing attention he’s been receiving.
One netizen replied in Waje’s defense: “To be fair, the reporter isn’t the one putting himself out there. He’s just doing his job the best way he can. It’s the news outlet trying to milk this trend for clout, syempre ‘di naman siya makakahindi.”
To this, Domingo responded: “Agree that the reporter should not be blamed for it. Just to put it on record, okay kami, wala kaming bad blood or bitterness contrary to how others are making it seem.”
Despite the clarification, some still accused her of being “bitter,” saying the audience’s admiration shouldn’t be seen as a negative.
“Funny how some people preach humility when what they’re really feeling is bitterness. Being treated like a celebrity isn’t a sin and let’s be real, it’s not even the journalist’s choice. It’s a reflection of the audience’s respect. Stay mad!” another critic commented.
Domingo replied again, stressing mutual respect within the industry, “Totally agree that the journalist should not be blamed kasi wala naman siya control sa comments. But disagree sa bitterness part [because] wala kaming issue personally. Even Kapuso reporters are liking and sharing the statement [’cause] we all respect our craft. 🤍”
As of writing, neither GMA News nor Waje has issued a public statement regarding the matter.
