Beauty queen Sam Aldeano has called on the public to move on from her viral onstage moment with actor Derrick Monasterio after the latter personally apologized over their “uncomfortable” encounter during a pageant event in Davao.
Monasterio recently became a hot topic online after clips from his performance at the Binibining Davao de Oro 2026 coronation night circulated on social media.
In the videos, the actor serenaded candidates onstage, but viewers noticed Aldeano appearing uneasy when Monasterio placed his hand on the right side of her ribs.
Netizens pointed out the candidate’s reaction in the viral footage, noting how she subtly shifted and placed her hand on her waist during the moment, which many interpreted as an attempt to move his hand away.
Aldeano later addressed the issue through a social media post, acknowledging that she did feel slightly uncomfortable that evening but reassured that she was doing fine. She also thanked those who expressed concern for her.
In a more detailed statement, the beauty queen clarified what happened during the moment on stage and confirmed that she and Monasterio had already spoken privately to resolve the matter.
Aldeano explained that the design of her gown made the situation more delicate, as it relied solely on its structure for support.
“For those who may not know, my gown relied solely on the structure of the dress itself for support. There were no additional layers or support underneath securing the top. That is why you may notice me placing my hand on my waist during that moment—so I could professionally and gracefully excuse Mr. Monasterio’s hand while still maintaining composure on stage,” she wrote.
The beauty queen emphasized that the issue had already been settled after Monasterio personally reached out to her to apologize.
“I want to make it clear that Mr. Monasterio and I have already communicated, and the matter between us has been settled,” Aldeano said. He personally reached out to apologize and assured me that he will be more mindful in the future so that a situation like this will not happen to anyone again. There are no ill feelings.”
She also appealed to the public and media to refrain from amplifying the issue further, stressing that the brief moment should not overshadow the pageant or the people involved.
“What I truly hope now is for everyone to stop making this a bigger issue than it already is. I respectfully urge media outlets and online pages not to sensationalize or use this moment for content. It was a brief moment on stage, and it does not define the event nor the people involved,” she added.
Aldeano ended her message by thanking those who supported her and advocated for her online, “Thank you to everyone who supported me and stood up for me. I see you, and I am grateful. Let us move forward with respect and kindness.”
