Boy Abunda Responds to Julie Anne San Jose’s ‘Church Concert’
BOY ABUNDA – The “King of Talk” shared his thoughts on the controversy surrounding Julie Anne San Jose’s church concert.
A video of Julie Anne singing “Dancing Queen” in front of the altar of Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro, sparked varied reactions from the public. Critics pointed out her “high slit” gown and questioned the appropriateness of the venue for the performance, which was intended as a benefit concert.
In an episode of Fast Talk with Boy Abunda on October 10, he praised Julie Anne for her willingness to support a small church, despite her status as a prominent artist in the music industry. Abunda expressed admiration for her commitment to fundraising, noting, “Nakakabilib naman ‘tong si Julie Anne. She still does these fundraisings for churches.” He emphasized that she does not selectively choose who to help, highlighting her good intentions.
However, Abunda also acknowledged the public’s criticism regarding the venue, stating, “I agree with the public reaction na parang inappropriate ‘yung venue.” He reflected on his own experience as a manager when he encountered a similar situation at a concert in Bicol. Upon realizing the concert was set to take place inside a church, he insisted that they perform outside instead.
While Abunda has not yet spoken to Julie Anne, he reminded viewers that artists often face “on-ground realities” that may affect their decisions. He noted, “Do you actually have the time to change your repertoire, to change your clothes?”
In response to the controversy, the Sparkle GMA Artist Center released an official statement, and on October 10, Julie Anne publicly apologized for the incident. Despite her and the agency’s apologies, Fr. Carlito Meim Dimaano, the parish priest, accepted full responsibility for the events that transpired.