By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – A member of the 21st Davao City Council condemned a social media post by local vlogger Crist Briand Oncada that used the phrase “Looking for Baboy na Halal,” calling it offensive and disrespectful to the Muslim community.
In a privilege speech on Tuesday afternoon, September 9, Councilor Kristine May John Mercado, president of the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation and the lone Muslim member of the council, criticized the post as misleading and insensitive.
“For Muslims, dietary laws are clear and sacred. Pork can never be halal. The phrase itself is contradictory,” Mercado said. “Using it carelessly spreads misinformation and disrespects our faith and identity.”
Mercado stressed the importance of respect and inclusivity, citing acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s reminders that discrimination has no place in the city.
The councilor urged Oncada to issue a public apology and commit to greater cultural sensitivity, echoing an earlier call by the Bangsamoro Youth Commission of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
“This is not just about religion. It is about respecting diversity in our city—whether Muslim, Christian, Lumad, or any other community,” Mercado added.
Mercado emphasized that freedom of speech does not excuse disrespect.
“We cannot allow social media or public office to be used to spread discrimination or misinformation. Davao City is a city of respect, inclusivity, and unity,” she said.
The controversy comes after the city council passed a resolution reminding vloggers to observe national and local policies following complaints about Oncada’s online content.
Councilor Bonz Militar, chair of the Committee on Information and Technology, confirmed that Oncada is the only vlogger with recent violations, including a now-deleted video involving a minor.
Militar said erring content creators are given warnings for first and second offenses, but may face penalties for repeated violations.
The City Council called on Oncada to publicly apologize and urged all vloggers to responsibly exercise their freedom of expression.
