DAVAO CITY – The Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president here denounced on Tuesday, Sept. 9, a social media post by a local vlogger that used the phrase “Looking for Baboy na Halal,” calling it offensive, misleading, and disrespectful to the Muslim community.

In a privilege speech, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President and Councilor Kristine May John Mercado, the lone Muslim in the council, criticized Crist Briand Oncada for the post, stressing that such content spreads misinformation and disrespects sacred religious beliefs.

“For us Muslims, our dietary laws are clear and sacred. Pork or baboy can never be halal. The phrase ‘halal na baboy’ is a contradiction in itself. Using it carelessly not only spreads misinformation but also disrespects our faith and our identity,” Mercado said.

Mercado said that public servants must uphold respect, inclusion, and unity. She cited acting City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s consistent reminders that discrimination has no place in Davao City, and that he has stood for unity and mutual respect.

“Yet, we continue to see content online that mocks what is sacred to others,” she said. “This is not just about religion. It is about upholding respect for diversity in our city, whether Muslim, Christian, Lumad, or any other community.”

Mercado condemned Oncada’s insensitive behavior and urged him to take responsibility by issuing a public apology and committing to greater cultural awareness which the Bangsamoro Youth Commission of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim echoed.

“We cannot allow our platforms – whether in social media or public office – to be used to spread discrimination or misinformation. Freedom of speech is not freedom to disrespect. Let us remind everyone that Davao City is a city of respect, inclusivity, and unity,” Mercado said.

The Davao City Council has passed a resolution reminding content creators to observe national and local policies after Oncada’s alleged irresponsible behaviors, choice of words, and decisions in his social media content.

Councilor Bonz Militar, chairperson of the Committee on Information and Technology, said Oncada is the only one with recent violations, although there were cases in the past. He added that until now, the content creator has not reached out to the city council.