A social media post by columnist and broadcaster Ramon Tulfo has drawn widespread condemnation from netizens, particularly residents of Manay and the broader Davao Oriental region, after he publicly criticized his hometown’s response to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recent visit.
In the now-viral post, Tulfo expressed disappointment over what he described as the “lack of gratitude” shown by Manay residents during the President’s helicopter landing in the town, which had recently suffered a devastating earthquake. Tulfo lamented that instead of welcoming the President, locals chanted “Sara, Sara!”—a reference to Vice President Sara Duterte—prompting him to accuse his kababayans of being “entitled,” “uncivilized,” and lacking “refinement.”
The post, written in a mix of Filipino and English, included pointed remarks such as: “Palibhasa karamihan sa kanila ay pusaka, mga taga-bundok na malayo sa sibilisasyon,” and “Kaya hanggang ngayon ay third class municipality pa rin ang Manay.”
The backlash was swift. Community leaders, educators, and ordinary citizens from Manay and neighboring towns took to social media to denounce Tulfo’s statements as elitist, divisive, and deeply insulting. Many emphasized that the chants were not acts of disrespect, but expressions of political preference and local solidarity.
“This is not just about politics—it’s about dignity,” said a teacher from Manay. “To reduce an entire town to stereotypes is irresponsible and cruel.”
Local officials have yet to issue a formal statement, but several youth organizations and advocacy groups in Davao Oriental have called for a public apology, citing the need to uphold respectful discourse, especially in times of crisis.
Tulfo, known for his blunt commentary and history of controversial posts, has not responded to the criticism as of press time.
