Sparkle GMA Artist Center takes full responsibility for Julie Anne San Jose's 'inappropriate' church performance

Sparkle GMA Artist Center said it's taking full responsibility for Julie Anne San Jose's attendance at a church event in Mindoro, which has stirred controversy after she performed "inappropriate" songs.

"Sparkle GMA Artist Center takes full responsibility for Julie Anne's attendance at this event," the agency said in a statement posted on Facebook on Oct. 9. "It is our job to coordinate and clear details with the organizers and relay the instructions to our artist."

Sparkle explained that San Jose, who also shared the statement on her page, "only fulfilled her duties and commitment as a true professional."

"She is a devout Catholic and had no intention of disrespecting the Church or its members," it said.

The agency apologized to "those we have offended" and to San Jose.

"Moving forward, we will be more vigilant in our coordination efforts to ensure such incidents do not happen again," it said.

Last Oct. 6, San Jose held a benefit concert at the Nuestra Señora del Pilar Shrine with guest performer Jessica Villarubin.

Titled Heavenly Harmony Concert, Harana Para Kay Maria, its proceeds will go to the church's construction.

San Jose, however, was criticized for performing songs like ABBA's Dancing Queen.

A viral video on X showed her in front of the altar dancing and clapping, with others noting she wore a gown with a slit that revealed much skin.

Some users called it "sacrilegious" and "blasphemous."

"She's talented and could really use her voice for more fitting music in a liturgical setting," one user said.

"Would have been more prudent to find a different venue or have the altar covered if the church building was the only possible venue," another user said.