🔴 Jessy Mendiola Reportedly Upset Over DILG Usec. Jovic Remulla’s Joke Amid Widespread Flooding 🔴

 July 23, 2025

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Actress and public figure Jessy Mendiola has allegedly expressed her disappointment over a controversial remark made by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Jovic Remulla, which was seen by many as insensitive — especially as large parts of Luzon remain submerged due to Typhoon Kabayan’s onslaught.

Sources close to the actress revealed that Mendiola was “badrip” (a Filipino slang term for extremely annoyed or irritated) after seeing the government official’s comment, which was widely circulated and criticized on social media over the weekend.

💬 The Controversial Joke

Undersecretary Jovic Remulla reportedly made a light-hearted comment — now deleted — on social media regarding the flooding situation in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Though the exact wording has been redacted from official channels, screenshots allegedly showed Remulla saying something along the lines of:

“Eh di mag-swimming na lang kayo, libre pool!”

While some may have interpreted it as an attempt at humor, netizens — and public figures alike — saw it as tone-deaf and disrespectful, especially considering the damage caused by the typhoon.

🌊 Flood Crisis Across Luzon

Typhoon Kabayan, which entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility last week, brought intense rain and winds, leading to massive floods in Metro Manila, CALABARZON, and parts of Central Luzon. Thousands of families have been evacuated. Social media has been flooded with images of residents wading through chest-deep waters, submerged vehicles, and stranded commuters.

As of Tuesday morning, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) confirmed at least 14 casualties and hundreds of millions in agricultural and infrastructure damage.

In the midst of this crisis, Remulla’s joke did not sit well with the public — and Jessy Mendiola was no exception.

👩 Jessy Mendiola’s Silent But Clear Reaction

While Mendiola has not released an official statement, insiders revealed that she was “deeply irritated and disappointed” after seeing the Undersecretary’s remark online. A source close to her stated:

“She’s been using her platform to raise awareness about the flooding and help organize relief drives. To hear a joke like that — coming from someone in government — naturally upset her.”

On Instagram Stories over the weekend, Jessy also reposted several calls for help, donation drives, and messages about government accountability. One post, in particular, read:

“Now is not the time to joke. People are suffering.”

While she didn’t name Remulla directly, followers believe it was a subtle but unmistakable jab at the official’s viral comment.

🧍 Who is Jovic Remulla?

Jovic Remulla is a DILG undersecretary and the brother of current Justice Secretary Boying Remulla. Known for his controversial takes and occasional sarcasm online, Jovic has gained a mixed reputation — popular among some circles for his “witty banter,” but often criticized for lacking tact during sensitive events.

This is not his first brush with controversy. In early 2024, he also received backlash for a joke made during a transport strike, which he later apologized for.

🧨 Public Backlash

Social media quickly turned against Remulla after screenshots of the “swimming pool” joke went viral. The hashtags #InsensitiveJoke and #BadripSiJessy even trended briefly on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.

Here are some netizen reactions:

“You can’t make jokes when people are losing homes. Baka gusto mong ikaw ang i-float sa baha?”

“Celebrities like Jessy are doing more for the people than these so-called officials.”

“Jessy’s reaction is valid. Imagine seeing that kind of joke while you’re stuck on your rooftop!”

Others also called for the DILG to release a statement, with some suggesting that Remulla should be sanctioned for his “unprofessional behavior.”

🧡 Jessy’s Relief Efforts

Jessy Mendiola, wife of actor and TV host Luis Manzano, has been an active advocate for humanitarian efforts, especially since becoming a mother. In recent months, she has used her platform to help small communities, organize feeding programs, and raise donations during calamities.

In the wake of Typhoon Kabayan, Jessy shared several donation drives on her Instagram account and encouraged followers to support families displaced by the floods.

A post from Sunday featured photos of volunteers distributing food packs, captioned with:

“Let’s do what we can — every little help counts. Praying for everyone affected.”

⚖️ Remulla Responds — or Not?

As of this writing, Undersecretary Remulla has yet to address the issue directly. His most recent social media post simply says:

“Stay safe, everyone. Laban lang.”

Critics argue that the lack of a formal apology or clarification reflects poorly on his office, while others speculate that the original post was taken out of context. Still, the damage appears done — and public trust has been shaken, especially during a time when officials are expected to show compassion and leadership.

🤔 Analysis: When Public Officials Joke — and It Backfires

In a country like the Philippines where natural disasters are frequent and deeply personal, words — especially from those in power — carry heavy weight.

Experts in political communication point out that humor must always be used with caution, especially during national emergencies.

“The line between humor and insensitivity is razor thin when lives are at stake,” said one political analyst. “Jokes during times of suffering are rarely interpreted as harmless — especially if coming from someone tasked with protecting public welfare.”

Jessy Mendiola’s alleged reaction echoes the feelings of many citizens: frustration at the government’s perceived lack of empathy.

🧭 Moving Forward

As the country begins to recover from Typhoon Kabayan, public attention remains divided — between emergency relief efforts and growing demand for accountability from public officials.

Jessy Mendiola’s reaction serves as a reminder that celebrities — despite their glamorous image — are just as affected by national issues and are unafraid to speak out when lines are crossed.

📣 Final Thoughts

Jessy Mendiola is reportedly upset over a DILG official’s insensitive joke amid severe flooding.
Undersecretary Jovic Remulla has yet to issue a public apology.
Social media users have sided with Jessy, calling for accountability and empathy from government officials.
Relief efforts are ongoing as thousands remain displaced by Typhoon Kabayan.

In times of national crisis, silence is better than sarcasm — and compassion is more powerful than comedy.