Zubiri Says Sorry for Mentioning Inday Badiday During a Heated Senate Debate:
JUAN MIGUEL ZUBIRI – The senator publicly apologized to the family of the late television host and entertainment journalist Inday Badiday after mentioning her name during a heated Senate debate.
The controversy began when Zubiri reacted to a video presented by Imee Marcos, which allegedly claimed that the current administration was pushing for Charter change and possible term extensions. Several senators later questioned the credibility of the video and described it as misleading.
During the discussion, Zubiri mentioned Inday Badiday’s name while criticizing the tone of the debate and comparing the situation in the Senate to a circus. His remarks quickly went viral online and drew criticism from the late TV personality’s family, especially her grandson IC Mendoza, who said her name and legacy should not have been involved in political arguments.
Following the backlash, Zubiri released a public apology through Facebook. He explained that mentioning Inday Badiday was unintentional and happened in the middle of an emotional exchange in the Senate. He admitted that he should have chosen his words more carefully and took full responsibility for the comment.
The senator also clarified that his frustration was directed at the video presented during the session and not at the late journalist herself. He stressed that he never intended to disrespect her memory or reduce her contributions to media and public discourse.
Zubiri also acknowledged the important role Inday Badiday played in Philippine television and entertainment journalism. He said many Filipinos from his generation grew up watching her on television and recognized her as a major part of local pop culture. According to the senator, she was admired for her charm, humor, and warm personality, and her influence in the media industry remains significant even years after her passing. He also agreed with IC Mendoza’s statement that the late TV host should not have been dragged into political issues and promised to be more mindful with his words moving forward.