Star City Removes Pops Fernandez Statue After Online Backlash
Star City has temporarily removed the statue of Filipino singer Pops Fernandez from its newly launched STARtista Gallery following online criticism regarding its appearance.
The gallery, which recently opened to the public, features statues of well-known Filipino personalities from various fields, including entertainment, sports, fashion, comedy, and public service. However, after photos of Pops Fernandez’s statue began circulating on social media, many people expressed disappointment, saying that the figure did not closely resemble the veteran singer. The criticism quickly gained attention, with some fans even calling for improvements to ensure that the statue more accurately reflected her likeness.
In response, Star City acknowledged the concerns and admitted that some of the statues in the gallery still require further refinement. The amusement park explained that the project is still in its early stages and that efforts are already underway to improve and enhance several of the displays.
According to the company, the goal of the STARtista Gallery is not simply to create perfect replicas from the start but to establish a unique local attraction that celebrates Filipino icons and achievements. Star City emphasized that the project was designed to give Filipino families access to an experience similar to those offered by renowned international attractions while showcasing homegrown talent and personalities.
Although the company has confirmed that improvements are being made, it has not yet announced when the updated version of Pops Fernandez’s statue will be returned to public display. Despite the criticism, the incident has sparked discussions about the importance of accurately representing public figures and maintaining high-quality standards in attractions that honor notable personalities.
Meanwhile, Pops Fernandez, whose full name is Maria Cielito Lukban Fernandez, is one of the most respected entertainers in the Philippines. Widely known as the “Concert Queen,” she has built a successful career as a singer, television host, actress, producer, and businesswoman. Active in the entertainment industry since 1979, she has performed both locally and internationally and has become a prominent figure in Philippine music and television.