CONTENT creator and model Shaun Pelayo has issued a public apology following backlash over a Facebook Live comment where he expressed frustration at not being acknowledged by some local officials in Siquijor, his current place of residence.
“I take full responsibility and accountability,” Pelayo said in a follow-up livestream. “I need to be super conscious of any throwaway comment that I make. I’m on live a lot, and I know now how even one statement can offend someone.”
In his original livestream, Pelayo said that despite his efforts to promote Siquijor, he had not received proper acknowledgment from local government units.
The remark drew mixed reactions, including support from fans and sharp criticism from others, some of whom accused him of being ungrateful. Pelayo later clarified: “That was never my intention—to bring any negativity. If I’ve offended anyone, I sincerely apologize.”
He also spoke against the vitriol that followed. “I don’t appreciate the death threats being sent to me and my asawa,” he said. “That’s unacceptable on any level.”
Pelayo stressed that the threats should not reflect on the island’s residents. “Please don’t think badly of Siquijor,” he said. “It’s not the whole of Siquijor. It’s just a few selected individuals.”
Despite the issue, Pelayo said he remains committed to highlighting the beauty of the province. “From my heart, my love belongs to Siquijor still,” he said. “Let’s try to move forward from this.”