The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Oriental has declared social media personality Ferdinand Dela Merced, known as “The Philippine Looper,” persona non grata after his controversial remarks against the province drew widespread criticism during Typhoon “Tino.”
In its regular session on Monday, November 10, the Provincial Board, led by Vice Governor Fritz Diaz, approved the motion filed by 2nd District Board Member Erwin Michael Macias, condemning Dela Merced’s statements as “disrespectful” to local officials and residents.
Dela Merced, who has about one million Facebook followers, is known for going around the country on foot in hopes of setting a Guinness World Record.
He arrived in Dumaguete City on November 1 and was given free accommodations by the provincial government at the Convention Center.
However, on November 3, he posted social media rants allegedly made while intoxicated, claiming neglect by local officials and belittling the province’s disaster preparations amid Typhoon “Tino.”
His remarks, where he described calamities as “routine” and his own event as “rare”, sparked outrage among residents and officials who were then focused on typhoon response operations.
Macias said Dela Merced’s comments “unfairly tarnished the province’s image” despite the hospitality extended to him.
The approved resolution stated that his actions “caused public indignation” and violated the values of “respect, gratitude, and decency expected from visitors.”
The declaration serves as a formal expression of disapproval, barring Dela Merced from official welcome or recognition in the province.
On November 9, Dela Merced went live on Facebook to issue a public apology to the people of Negros Oriental following the backlash.*