“Was that intentional?” Netizens are furious after uncomfortable moment goes viral…

The Filipino internet is on fire as a viral clip from a recent Eat Bulaga episode appears to show Joey de Leon making inappropriate physical contact with Atasha Muhlach — daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, and one of the newest hosts of the long-running noontime show.

The moment, caught on live TV, has triggered outrage, confusion, and a flood of accusations, with viewers questioning whether what happened was accidental, inappropriate, or outright unacceptable.

Is it the end for "Eat Bulaga"?

🎥 The Viral Clip: What the Video Shows

In the now widely circulated video (which has racked up over 5 million views on X and Facebook), Joey de Leon is seen reaching toward Atasha during a comedic segment.

Atasha appears momentarily startled or uncomfortable.

Joey brushes past her hip or lower back area with his hand while laughing.

Her smile quickly fades, and she subtly steps away, visibly stiffening.

The video ends with an awkward shift in energy, which many netizens say “didn’t feel like acting.”

😡 Outrage Erupts Online: “That Was NOT Okay!”

Social media exploded just minutes after the clip aired:

“That wasn’t funny. That was disgusting.”

“She’s young enough to be his granddaughter! This is unacceptable.”

“Joey de Leon needs to be held accountable. We saw what we saw.”

Hashtags like #ProtectAtasha, #JoeyDeLeonCancel, and #EatBulagaControversy trended instantly, with thousands demanding action from the showrunners.

 No Official Statement… Yet

As of now:

GMA Network and Eat Bulaga’s production team have not issued any official comment.

Joey de Leon has remained silent, despite the backlash escalating hourly.

Atasha Muhlach has not publicly addressed the incident, but her management team is reportedly “reviewing footage” and “monitoring public reaction.”

 A Pattern of Behavior?

This isn’t the first time Joey de Leon has drawn criticism for questionable behavior:

In previous years, he was slammed for making insensitive jokes about mental health and sexual harassment.

He was nearly “canceled” in 2017 for mocking people with depression during a segment.

Critics now say this could be the final straw in a career riddled with controversies.

The Muhlach Family Reacts?

Unconfirmed reports suggest that Atasha’s parents, Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, are “disturbed” and considering taking action.

A source close to the family reportedly stated:

“They were proud of her Eat Bulaga stint. But this? This crossed a line.”

Celebrities Speak Out

Some stars have already taken to social media:

Angel Locsin: “No woman — no girl — should ever feel unsafe on set.”

Frankie Pangilinan: “That was not comedy. That was creepy.”

Could There Be Legal Consequences?

Legal experts are weighing in:

If Atasha or her team files a formal complaint, Joey de Leon could face administrative or criminal investigation under the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313).

Network liability could also come into play for failure to ensure a harassment-free workplace.

Mas gagaling pa sila': Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon admit watching new 'Eat Bulaga' | Philstar.com

Final Thoughts: Comedy or Violation?

What some may brush off as “an old man’s joke” is being seen by millions as a serious breach of respect, consent, and workplace boundaries.

And if the silence continues, it may no longer be just about a viral clip — but a movement demanding change in Philippine entertainment culture.

We have the video. Now we want accountability