Julie Anne San Jose apologizes after backlash from church performance

“THE Voice Kids Philippines” judge Julie Anne San Jose issued an apology on Thursday, addressing criticisms of her performance at a church event in Mindoro.

In an Instagram story, the singer-actress clarified that she only intended to “share joy” and “give support” to the church’s benefit concert. However, she acknowledged that some netizens might have “felt offended” by her performance.

Viral clips showed San Jose singing to Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory” and ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” for the “Heavenly Harmony Concert” held at the Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro on October 6.

However, the singer’s performance did not sit well with several netizens who found it “inappropriate” and “disrespectful.” 

They also raised eyebrows over San Jose’s concert attire, which was a high-slit dress. Others said the singer could have just performed worship songs, pointing out that the event was held inside the church.

In her statement, San Jose said the incident would serve as “a lesson learned” for her and assured it would not happen again.

“I am not perfect but please know that I have strong beliefs and my faith is unbreakable and cannot be shaken,” stressed San Jose.

“I pray that we can all move forward with compassion in our hearts,” she added.

Before this, Sparkle GMA Artist Center addressed the controversy, saying it would take “full responsibility” for their artist’s attendance at the benefit concert.

“It is our job to coordinate and clear details with the organizers and relay the instructions to our artist,” the talent agency explained. “Julie Anne only fulfilled her duties and commitment as a true professional.” 

It added, “She is a devout Catholic and had no intention of disrespecting the Church or its members.”

Church apologizes

The Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose in Mindoro and Nuestra Señora del Pilar Shrine also issued a separate apology over the incident. Parish priest Fr. Carlito Dimaano said he would own up to “all the mistakes” that led to the criticisms thrown at San Jose.

He also apologized to the actress-singer for the negative comments she received from netizens.

Meanwhile, the Apostolic Vicariate of San Jose said that Bishop Pablito Tagura already talked to Fr. Dimaano about the benefit concert, saying that the latter “recognized all the mistakes and apologized.”

“We are very sorry for those who have been offended and scandalized. We seek your understanding and beg for forgiveness,” it continued.