Joy Barcoma reacts to Kakai Bautista’s defense of Apple David

Miss Earth Philippines 2025 and actress Joy Barcoma distanced herself from comedian-actress Kakai Bautista after the latter defended courtside reporter Apple David, 33, amid the controversy surrounding her relationship with 18-year-old NCAA basketball player Chad Gammad.

In a post on X on Saturday, July 4, Barcoma wrote, "Simula ngayon mao-offend na ko pag sinabing kamukha ko siya. Madam, what is this?" referring to Kakai's recent remarks defending Apple David from the backlash over her relationship with Chad.

Barcoma's post quickly drew mixed reactions online. While some agreed with her sentiments, others sided with Kakai. Many also shared their own opinions about the ongoing controversy involving Apple and Chad.

Earlier, Kakai posted a video questioning why so many people were upset over Apple and Chad's relationship, arguing that it was ultimately a personal matter. "Pinakealaman niya ba yung buhay n'yo nung naglandi kayo?"

She also compared the criticism against Apple to how some people continue praising individuals with questionable backgrounds.

“Yung mga pinupuri nyo nga ng husto sa social media na mga hitad dahil namimigay ng pera eh kabit ng mga pulitikong magnanakaw. Tapos iyong MASAYA lang ayaw nyong tigilan?” she said.

Kakai added that people should protest if the relationship was actually harming others or affecting the country. Her comments quickly sparked backlash, with many netizens accusing her of enabling the controversial relationship.

Responding to the criticism, Kakai stood by her position and argued that those who believe something illegal had happened should file a formal complaint instead of attacking people online.

“15 years age gap. Tinitreat nyo as grooming. Kung sa tingin ninyo nga na masama nga iyong ginagawa, mag-file kayo ng complaint.”

She said she had researched the issue and found no formal complaint or case involving the relationship, adding that she was happy for the two. “And whatever it is that they have,  I think walang problema if they love each other and they like each other. And they're happy,” she said.

Kakai also brushed off the backlash, saying critics were free to block or unfollow her, and challenged them to return if a formal complaint was ever filed. "Ako mismo mang-aaway kay Apple David. Balikan nyo ako," she added.

David became the subject of public discussion after posting a photo with Chad on social media and later confirming their relationship. The controversy escalated after she maintained that there was nothing wrong with their relationship, fueling ongoing debate and criticism across social media.