Actress Francine Diaz and pop band Orange and Lemons have found themselves at the center of controversy following a viral video taken during the Governor & Vice Governor’s Night in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro on April 30.
In numerous videos that circulated online, Diaz can be seen going onstage after being introduced by the host while the band was setting up their equipment. The actress then greeted the crowd before singing Taylor Swift’s “Love Story.”
As she sang and asked the production to increase the volume of the backing track, the band could be seen talking with the organizers with visible confusion as they continued to set up their instruments. Soon enough, the band walked out of the stage as Diaz continued her performance.
When it was time for Orange and Lemons’ set, frontman Clem Castro spoke to the crowd before starting their performance.
“Gusto ko lang manghingi ng paumanhin pero kailangan kong sabihin to para sa mga artists. Kasi dapat kaninang 11 pa kami dito eh. So sana naman walang sumisingit. Yun lang. Respeto lang ba. So ayon lang gusto ko lang sabihin ‘yon. Ayokong masira ‘yung pag-eenjoy natin ngayong gabi,” said Castro.
Later on, Diaz shared a photo of a self-portrait gifted to her by a fan while expressing her gratitude on her Instagram story.
“Wasn’t able to get all the gifts from you guys but thank you so much for spending time with me tonight kahit late na!” the actress said.
“Mad respect for everyone who stayed up late. Respect goes both ways, gn!!” Diaz added, leading many to believe that she was throwing shade at the Orange and Lemons frontman’s statement.
While some fans of both parties sided with their idols and argued about who was at fault regarding the whole conflict, some shifted the blame to the organizers behind the program.
As of writing, the organizers behind the event as well as the two artists have yet to release an official statement about the whole situation.
The Governor & Vice Governor’s Night held at the San Jose Town Plaza was part of the municipality’s week-long celebration for its 114th founding anniversary from April 26 to May 1.