Ferdinand Dela Merced May Be Declared Persona Non Grata in Negros Oriental
FERDINAND DELA MERCED – What began as an inspiring nationwide journey for Ferdinand Dela Merced has now taken a controversial turn, as Negros Oriental officials consider declaring him persona non grata.
Philippine looper Ferdinand Dela Merced is facing backlash in Negros Oriental after a series of social media posts criticizing the province and its local officials. Reports indicate that the Negros Oriental provincial board is planning to declare him persona non grata following his controversial remarks online.
The issue began when Dela Merced, who is currently on his “Walk Towards Guinness World Records” campaign, expressed disappointment on social media, claiming that the provincial tourism office did not acknowledge his arrival. According to Dela Merced, he arrived in Negros Oriental on November 1, 2025—a national holiday—when government offices were closed.
Ferdinand Dela Merced also admitted that during his visit, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) was focused on preparations for the approaching Typhoon Tino. Dela Merced said he had hoped to coordinate with PDRRMO staff for support or an escort during his nationwide walk, but he felt ignored and unrecognized by the local government.
In frustration, Dela Merced posted statements online saying he would leave Negros Oriental because of his negative experience. Although he later acknowledged in a video post that he was assisted by the City Government and brought to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) at City High, his earlier remarks had already drawn criticism.
His comment downplaying the incoming typhoon—saying that “storms happen every year” while his cause was “rare”—further fueled public outrage. Many netizens from Negros Oriental criticized his insensitivity, emphasizing that local authorities were prioritizing disaster preparedness to protect residents.
As a result, Provincial Board Member Erwin Macias, chairperson of the Committee on Disaster Response, announced plans to file a resolution declaring Dela Merced persona non grata in Negros Oriental. If approved, the declaration would signify that Dela Merced is no longer welcome anywhere in the province.
The controversy marks another setback for Dela Merced’s nationwide campaign, which had initially aimed to inspire unity and endurance but has since been overshadowed by public backlash and accusations of arrogance.
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