Ted Failon criticized for remarks about Justin's nose, appearance on SB19's performance
Veteran broadcaster Ted Failon is in hot water among SB19 fans after making comments on member Justin's nose and overall appearance amid his much-awaited solo debut.
On Monday's episode of his radio program that he co-hosts with DJ Chacha, the pair talked about Justin's live performance on ASAP in promotion of his solo debut song Surreal.
Near the end of the report, as DJ Chacha was talking about Justin's inspiration for his song, Failon began to talk about the singer's appearance.
"Sana magkaroon tayo ng grupo na hindi naman kataasan ang tangos ng ilong para talagang original," he said.
"Eh iba na ngayon, syempre," DJ Chacha responded.
Online users react
SB19's fans, or A'TINs, did not appreciate Failon's remarks on the singer's appearance, which they regarded as "inappropriate" and "unprofessional."
"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!" one user wrote on X.
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
"Really? Butting in and interrupting her from delivering her lines just to comment about his looks, and the insinuating remarks on how he should look 'original'? Ted Failon, you're a veteran and a professional in your field, you should've known better," another one stressed.
Some noted that Justin's nose has a naturally high-bridged nose while others pointed out how Failon should set an example to other journalists given his experience in the industry.
"Age doesn't define maturity. Maturity is attitude built with experience. Learn to judge people not by their age, height or appearence rather by the way they handle their things. Why so rude Ted Failon? Apologize to Justin!" one user urged.
Another one lamented, "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."
"The Philippines is a highly diverse country - Filipinos come in a wide range of facial features. Also, someone’s looks has nothing to do with their artistry or originality," they added.
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
Failon has yet to issue a statement on the issue.
Justin released the music video for Surreal on Feb. 29, and centers on the music artist navigating a surrealistic world. He is now the fourth SB19 member who launched a solo career after Ken, Josh, and Pablo.
