Donnalyn Bartolome came under fire from netizens last week after posting a “be grateful for having a job and returning to work after the Holidays” social media post.
On Tuesday, January 3, Bartolome posted on her Facebook page that she was “feeling lucky” to be back at work and encouraged internet users to “change” their outlook for the new year and that they should be grateful since having a job is a “gift.”
“Why are you sad about returning to work when you should be happy? You have another opportunity to better your family’s and your own lives. I myself enjoy working on January 1 because I believe in superstition that I will be employed during the entire year. You should be appreciative that you have a job.” Donnalyn said.
This came off as very tone deaf for a significant number of people. Other public figures have also weighed their thoughts regarding the issue like Rendon Labador, who made an open letter addressing to all influencers, saying that Donnalyn shouldn’t be shaken by the controversy as it is really hard being a social media influencer regarding their frame of mind. Advising that she should take this chance to step back and reflect that not everyone has the same privilege and experiences in life.
Bartolome then went damage control right after the reaction, showcasing her own hardships like commuting to go to work, which her examples were already of her time being a budding celebrity. But it’s already too late, as some people thought she never understood the implications of what she said, and is now saving face for all the wrong reasons.
The YouTuber previously received backlash on social media For hosting a “kanto” birthday party August of last year.