FIL-AM PAGEANT TITLEHOLDERS DRAW CRITICISM OVER “HALFIES” REMARKS

Filipino-American pageant personalities Brandon Espiritu and Jether Palomo have become the subject of online criticism after social media users reacted to remarks allegedly connected to the term “halfies.”

The controversy reportedly began after a video circulated online showing pageant participants in a casual gathering singing the American national anthem instead of the Philippine national anthem. The clip drew mixed reactions, with some netizens questioning the gesture and its connection to Filipino representation in international pageantry.

The discussion intensified after screenshots of later comments referencing “halfies” spread across social media. Some users interpreted the remarks as dismissive toward Filipino-born pageant aspirants, while others viewed the issue as part of a broader conversation about identity, nationality, and inclusivity.

Espiritu represented the Philippines at Mister Supranational 2024, where he earned a notable placement, while Palomo has also competed internationally under the Philippine banner.

As the posts continue to circulate, the incident has sparked renewed debate over cultural respect, representation, and how pageant figures express their connection to the countries they represent.