Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) — The City Council of the Island Garden City of Samal has officially declared content creator Lennor Ando Jumamoy, popularly known as “Lennor,” persona non grata following the release of videos widely condemned as insulting, disrespectful, and degrading to the people of Samal.
The declaration was approved during the 10th City Council session through a resolution sponsored by Councilor Anne David, in response to Lennor’s recent content filmed on the island. The videos, which circulated widely on social media, allegedly contained derogatory remarks and negative portrayals of local residents, particularly targeting Samaleño men.
Lennor is known for creating content in which he travels to different places to meet and socialize with men. However, his Samal episode sparked outrage after he was heard making comments that many residents described as demeaning and dehumanizing, including statements implying that people in Samal “did not look like people” and comparing them to fish found in creeks.
“These statements are not only offensive but also deeply harmful to the dignity and reputation of our people,” local officials said, stressing that such content crosses the line from entertainment to discrimination and mockery.
Symbolic but Strong Stand
Declaring a person persona non grata means the individual is no longer welcome in the locality. While largely symbolic, the move represents a firm stance by the local government that it does not condone the presence or activities of individuals who demean the community.
“This is an official action and response to the statements made by the vlogger,” the council noted, emphasizing that freedom of expression does not give anyone the license to insult, degrade, or ridicule an entire community.
Public Outrage and Community Defense
The videos triggered a wave of anger among Samaleños, who took to social media to defend their community and condemn what they described as arrogant, disrespectful, and irresponsible behavior. Many called on authorities to take action, saying the content perpetuated harmful stereotypes and damaged the image of the island.
Residents said the remarks were not just jokes but attacks on their identity and dignity as people, adding that Samal has long been known for its hospitality and peaceful community life.
Call for Responsible Content Creation
The local government also used the incident to issue a strong reminder to content creators and vloggers to act responsibly when producing and sharing material online.
“Not everything should be turned into content. Not everything should be treated as a joke,” the city government stressed. “Words have impact. Content has consequences.”
Officials warned that while social media offers wide reach and influence, it also carries ethical responsibility, especially when portraying communities, cultures, and individuals.
A Warning to All
City leaders expressed hope that the resolution would serve as a clear warning to others who use social media platforms without regard for respect, truth, and decency.
“This should remind everyone to put limits on what they say and do. Not everything can be justified by humor or views. Respect should always come first,” the council added.
With the declaration now in effect, Lennor is officially persona non grata in the Island Garden City of Samal, marking a strong and united stand by the city to protect its people from ridicule and to uphold the dignity of the Samaleño community.