A social media content creator from Mindanao is facing widespread public condemnation after videos containing derogatory remarks about the Manobo and T’boli Indigenous Peoples circulated online, prompting the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in Sultan Kudarat to denounce the statements as discriminatory and contrary to the rights guaranteed under Philippine law.
Gino Morales, the vlogger behind Binuang Blog GTV, which reportedly has around 47,000 followers, drew intense criticism after a now-deleted video allegedly described members of the Manobo Tribe using offensive stereotypes, calling them “damak” (dirty), “wala tuli” (uncircumcised), and “mabahò” (smelly). The remarks quickly spread across social media, where many netizens, Indigenous leaders, and advocates described them as insulting, degrading, and harmful to Indigenous communities.
Further outrage followed after another vlog allegedly referred to members of the T’boli Indigenous Cultural Community as “damak” or dirty, extending the controversy beyond the initial remarks directed at the Manobo.
The videos triggered an avalanche of criticism online, with many users emphasizing that Indigenous Peoples have long faced discrimination and marginalization, making such statements especially damaging when amplified by a public figure with thousands of followers.
Public apology issued
Following the backlash, Morales and another individual, who are both reportedly members of the Manobo Tribe, released a separate video publicly apologizing for their actions.
In the apology, Morales knelt while asking for forgiveness, expressing remorse for the content they had produced.
“Kame po ay humihinge nang taos pusong pasensiya… sa aming ginawang content noong nakaraang araw. Humihinge rin po kami nang kapatawaran sa aming nagawang pagkakamali. Naway mapatawad niyo po kami. Hindi po namin sinasadyang makasakit ng damdamin ng aming kapwa.”
He also addressed fellow members of the Manobo community in their local language, asking for their forgiveness and promising not to repeat the incident.
However, several social media users pointed out that while the apology addressed the offensive remarks made against the Manobo community, it did not specifically acknowledge or apologize for the derogatory comments directed at the T’boli people. This omission drew additional criticism from Indigenous advocates and members of the T’boli community, who said both groups deserved equal recognition and respect.
NCIP issues statement of condemnation
Amid the growing controversy, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) – Sultan Kudarat Provincial Office released an official statement strongly condemning the content creator’s remarks.
The agency described the statements as “blatantly disrespectful and offensive” toward the Manobo Dulangan and T’boli Indigenous Cultural Communities.
According to the NCIP, such remarks constitute a form of racial discrimination that promotes prejudice against Indigenous Peoples and have no place in a society that upholds human dignity, equality, and cultural diversity.
The commission cited Republic Act No. 8371, or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, particularly Section 21, which guarantees Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples equal protection under the law and safeguards them against discrimination.
The law affirms that Indigenous Peoples are entitled to the full measure of human rights and fundamental freedoms without distinction or discrimination and mandates the State to recognize, respect, and protect these rights.
The NCIP also disclosed that it is coordinating with the concerned Indigenous Cultural Communities and other appropriate authorities to determine the proper course of action, including the possibility of an amicable settlement, while leaving open the option of pursuing appropriate legal remedies should circumstances warrant.
Respect for Indigenous Peoples
The incident has reignited discussions on the responsibilities of social media personalities and content creators, particularly those with substantial online audiences.
Advocates stressed that freedom of expression does not excuse discriminatory speech or the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes against Indigenous Peoples, whose cultures, traditions, and identities are protected under the Constitution and national laws.
The NCIP reminded the public that while everyone has the right to express themselves, that freedom must always be exercised responsibly and with respect for the dignity, identity, and cultural heritage of others.
The commission likewise urged the public to practice cultural sensitivity, reject discriminatory language, and help build an inclusive society where all Indigenous Cultural Communities are treated with respect and equality.
The controversy serves as another reminder that online content capable of reaching thousands of viewers carries real-world consequences. Statements that demean entire communities not only reinforce harmful stereotypes but also undermine years of efforts to promote the rights, dignity, and recognition of Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. As the NCIP continues to evaluate the matter, many are calling for accountability that goes beyond public apologies and contributes to genuine understanding, respect, and reconciliation among the country’s diverse cultural communities.