MEDIA EXPLOSION: Alexandra Eala Files $5 Million Lawsuit Against Joey de Leon Following Controversial “Eala lubid!” Comment — Chaos Erupts as Fans React Violently
In a shocking twist that has rocked both the sports and entertainment worlds, Filipino tennis star Alexandra Eala has filed a $5 million defamation lawsuit against veteran TV host Joey de Leon, just two hours after his controversial remark, “Eala lubid!”.
The phrase, which was uttered during a live segment of the famous noontime show Eat Bulaga!, was immediately blasted across social media, where it drew sharp criticism for its insensitive and derogatory connotation. Allegedly playing off the Filipino word “lubid” (meaning rope), Joey de Leon’s remark was interpreted by many as a deeply inappropriate and harmful comment targeting Eala’s personal struggles and mental health.
What ensued next was chaos.
Shortly after news of the lawsuit broke, a mob of Joey de Leon’s supporters gathered outside the studio, chanting their idol’s name and accusing Eala of “ruining the fun” and “being too sensitive.” Reports from the scene describe a chaotic scene as some fans hurled objects—including water bottles, paper signs, and even small rocks—at Eala’s vehicle as she was escorted away under security protection. Authorities were forced to intervene to prevent the escalating crowd from causing further harm.
Adding fuel to the fire, Eala was temporarily suspended from official duties by the Philippine Tennis Federation, which cited a need to “preserve neutrality” during the investigation. While this move was met with backlash from supporters who saw it as victim-blaming, others defended the decision as a procedural step.
The controversy has already begun to affect the corporate world. The brand director of Eat Bulaga! is reportedly in urgent talks to terminate its endorsement contract with Eala, a deal that was only signed last year to promote the show’s youth engagement campaigns and charity efforts. “Given the serious nature of the allegations, we are reviewing all brand partnerships with utmost care,” a network insider revealed.
However, the most jaw-dropping moment came when Joey de Leon himself spoke out. In what many expected to be an apology or statement of remorse, the veteran host instead posted a cryptic message on his social media accounts:
“Lubid can hold you up or let you down. The truth will hang higher.”
The ambiguous wording left fans and critics stunned, with many questioning whether it was a subtle jab back at Eala or an attempt to philosophize amidst the brewing scandal. Reactions quickly polarized — some condemned him further, while others praised his “artistic defiance.”
Meanwhile, Eala’s legal team released a brief but powerful statement:
“Words can wound. Silence is not surrender. Alexandra is choosing to fight — not just for herself, but for every Filipina who has been mocked, doubted, or dismissed for speaking her truth.”
With emotions running high and reputations on the line, this feud is far from over. Both sides now brace for a legal battle that could redefine how public figures are held accountable in the age of virality — and how far fans will go to defend their idols. Stay tuned as the story unfolds.
