Aly Alindayu has broken her silence after facing criticism for her “Englishera” remark on Marion Aunor’s Pusuan or Laruan dating game, describing the experience as “the worst” of her life.
In a series of Instagram posts, Aly shared that she received hate messages, memes, soundbites, and even death threats after a spliced version of the video circulated online.
“It’s been two weeks since the spliced video was uploaded (before I had it taken down). This will be the first time I will open up to the public about this,” she wrote.
Aly acknowledged that she “could have used different words” but emphasized that she was only echoing what others had said to her. She explained that she has been bullied for her language use since childhood, regardless of whether she spoke English or Tagalog.
Addressing the criticism, she clarified that her remark was not meant to demean anyone. “What I said was a preference, not a deal breaker. I was not looking down on him or anyone,” she said, referring to Ian Ramirez, the contestant she interacted with during the matchmaking segment.
She also revealed that she and Ian have since become friends and that he was not offended by her comments.
Regarding her English-speaking background, Aly explained that it is her first language, though she does not have the typical American accent. “I spoke Taglish because it’s a Filipino show and I was adjusting. I hope you can see that I was trying,” she added.
Despite the backlash, Aly expressed gratitude to those who stood by her, including celebrities and strangers who defended her. “There are many people close to me or those I barely talk to standing up for me. Thank you so much!” she wrote.
She also extended forgiveness to those who sent her hateful messages. “To those who have sent me hate, I hear you. We have our own preferences and I forgive you and wish you peace,” she said.
Moving forward, Aly hopes to become an advocate against bullying, saying, “I want to help other people because I do not wish this at all.”
