🎤 G Tongi Calls Out Manny Pacquiao: Revisiting Past Comments Against the LGBTQ+ Community

1. Introduction: A Heated Reminder From G Tongi Echoes Through the Spotlight

Veteran actress and advocate Giselle “G” Töngi has once again proven that her voice is not one to be silenced. In a recent public statement, she directly addressed Senator Manny Pacquiao, calling him out for his past remarks about the LGBTQ+ community—comments that stirred controversy and hurt years ago but have never truly faded from public memory.

Töngi’s strong reminder comes at a time when discussions about inclusivity, equality, and accountability are more critical than ever. Her statements reignited conversations around responsibility, public influence, and how long-standing beliefs—especially from influential figures—impact marginalized communities.

This article takes an in-depth look at the issue, G Töngi’s background as an advocate, Pacquiao’s controversial history regarding LGBTQ+ issues, and the broader implications of this public exchange in Philippine society.

2. Who Is G Töngi? More Than Just an Actress

2.1 From Screen Star to Cultural Worker

G Töngi first rose to fame in the 1990s as a young actress and TV host, but in recent years, she’s taken on a more activist and academic role. After completing graduate studies in public service and arts management in the United States, she began working on projects that uplift Filipino culture, identity, and marginalized voices, particularly through her work in theater and community organizing.

2.2 Her Advocacy

G is also a fierce advocate for gender equality, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, often using her platform to speak on issues others shy away from. Her recent comments on Manny Pacquiao are consistent with her long-standing values of social justice and human dignity.

3. The Flashpoint: G Töngi’s Statement and Why It Hit Home

3.1 The Call-Out

In a public interview and corresponding social media post, G Töngi addressed Senator Manny Pacquiao’s previous remarks that compared members of the LGBTQ+ community to animals, remarks that drew national and international backlash when they were made years ago.

“We cannot simply forget. Words hurt—and when they come from people in power, they become even more dangerous,” Töngi stated.

She urged public figures to reflect on the harm caused and to commit to genuine learning and change rather than sidestepping accountability.

3.2 Timing and Relevance

Töngi’s comments come amid rising discussions in the Philippines about the SOGIE Equality Bill, anti-discrimination policies, and the continued struggle of LGBTQ+ Filipinos for equal rights and protection.

Her decision to bring up Pacquiao’s past comments is not just personal—it’s a political and cultural intervention that reminds the public of how easily harmful narratives can be normalized when left unchecked.

4. A Look Back: Manny Pacquiao’s Controversial Comments

4.1 The Original Incident

In 2016, during a pre-election interview, Pacquiao referred to same-sex couples as “worse than animals.” The statement, seen as deeply offensive and derogatory, immediately drew criticism from across sectors, including human rights advocates, fellow celebrities, and global figures.

4.2 Fallout and Apologies

After the backlash, Pacquiao issued a public apology, stating that while he still held traditional religious beliefs, he did not intend to hurt people personally.

However, many felt the apology fell short, especially as the remarks had already amplified dangerous stereotypes and contributed to the stigmatization of LGBTQ+ Filipinos, many of whom already face bullying, discrimination, and violence.

5. The Power of Influence: Why G Töngi’s Statement Matters

5.1 Recalling vs. Canceling

Töngi’s call-out is not an attempt to “cancel” Manny Pacquiao but rather to remind the public that reconciliation and healing come only after accountability and active change.

“We can’t pretend like it didn’t happen. Moving on without responsibility is not progress,” she said in an interview.

5.2 Celebrity Responsibility in Public Discourse

Public figures—especially those in politics or entertainment—shape public thought. When they make dismissive or harmful statements, it legitimizes discrimination. Calling out past behavior is not vindictive; it’s a critical part of reshaping social norms.

6. The Broader Impact on the LGBTQ+ Community

6.1 Lingering Effects

Despite the time that has passed since Pacquiao’s controversial remarks, many LGBTQ+ Filipinos say the pain remains. Statements like his feed into a broader culture that dehumanizes and sidelines non-heteronormative identities.

Activists argue that words like these embolden hate, making it harder to push for necessary legal protections.

6.2 G Töngi as an Ally

By using her voice now, G Töngi is offering solidarity to those still fighting for equal recognition. It’s a reminder that true allyship isn’t silent, and that standing up for marginalized communities means confronting uncomfortable truths.

7. Public Reaction: A Divided Response

7.1 Support for G Töngi

Many Filipinos applauded G Töngi’s bravery for speaking out on a sensitive but important topic. Comments across social media highlighted admiration for her consistency and her genuine concern for inclusivity.

Some comments included:

“G is right—apologies mean little without action.”
“She speaks not just for the LGBTQ+, but for all of us who believe in dignity.”

7.2 Defenders of Manny Pacquiao

On the other side, Pacquiao’s loyal fans defended him, citing his religious beliefs and claiming that people should “move on” from the past.

Others accused G Töngi of “digging up old issues,” though critics countered that the passage of time doesn’t erase the need for accountability.

8. Where Is Manny Pacquiao Now on LGBTQ+ Issues?

8.1 Recent Statements

Since the incident in 2016, Pacquiao has been more careful in his public remarks. However, he has not made any explicit efforts to mend ties with the LGBTQ+ community or support legislation aimed at protecting their rights.

8.2 Silence as a Statement

Many activists argue that silence from high-profile individuals can be as harmful as offensive rhetoric. By not addressing the issue further or actively showing support for equality, critics say Pacquiao remains complicit in perpetuating societal biases.

9. The Bigger Picture: LGBTQ+ Rights in the Philippines

9.1 Progress and Roadblocks

The Philippines remains one of the most LGBTQ+-visible countries in Southeast Asia, but visibility does not always translate into protection. The SOGIE Equality Bill has languished in Congress for years due to lack of support from some lawmakers and religious groups.

Statements like Pacquiao’s — and reminders like G Töngi’s — continue to be flashpoints in the long struggle for equality.

9.2 The Role of Advocacy

Public figures, artists, and cultural workers like G Töngi play an important role in keeping the conversation alive. By confronting influential voices and calling for real change, they help push society toward greater empathy and inclusion.

10. Conclusion: Not Just a Call-Out, But a Call to Conscience

G Töngi’s statement is a powerful reminder that accountability is not optional—especially when it concerns the dignity of entire communities. While Manny Pacquiao’s past remarks may have faded from mainstream headlines, the impact lingers for many.

This is not merely a personal feud or showbiz controversy; it’s a cultural moment that challenges us to examine how we treat those who have been marginalized and how we hold our heroes accountable.

In an age of influence, silence is not neutrality—it’s a stance. And G Töngi has chosen hers loud and clear.