Diwata Receives Criticism for Cleaning Up Manila Bay
DIWATA – The social media personality, paresan owner, and 4th nominee of the Vendors party-list, has drawn attention for his cleanup efforts at Manila Bay.
Videos of Diwata, whose real name is Deo Balbuena, picking up trash along the shoreline have gone viral, showing his initiative to collect litter and set aside usable items for sale. However, his actions have sparked criticism from netizens who believe he is trying to improve his public image ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
Many comments from social media users suggest that Diwata should focus on cleaning his paresan, a food stall, before taking on the responsibility of cleaning Manila Bay. Critiques include remarks about the disposable items and plastic gloves used in his business, implying hypocrisy in his environmental efforts. Some netizens expressed doubt about his intentions, saying that his sudden focus on cleaning is just a strategy to gain votes, noting that similar actions are common among candidates during election season.
One user pointed out the irony in Diwata’s timing, stating that the area had been dirty for a long time, and questioned his sincerity in wanting to clean it now. Others urged him to drop his political ambitions and instead concentrate on his business, suggesting that selling paresan would be a more effective way to help the community.
Despite the backlash and critical comments, Diwata has not publicly responded to the negative reactions or defended his actions. His cleanup initiative has been overshadowed by doubts regarding his motivations and the timing of his efforts with the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, among those who criticized Diwata for his political aspirations was the motivational speaker Rendon Labador. He expressed concern over Diwata’s understanding of the political landscape, posting, “Baka akala ni Diwata mag luluto at mag titinda lang siya ng Pares, paki tanong nga kung alam niya yang pinapasok niya. Nag aalala ako para sa kanya.”