Joshua Garcia appeared to distance himself from Vice President Sara Duterte after drawing criticism from netizens for reposting highlights of her impeachment trial on his official TikTok account.

Following the backlash, Garcia deleted the TikTok post and unfollowed Duterte on Instagram, a move many viewed as an attempt at damage control.

However, for some netizens, the gesture came too late, with many continuing to criticize the actor across social media.

Among the comments were: "Pacute lang 'yan si Joshua. Paporma lang, like Robintot, not using his head."

"Hahaha, it's so funny and really arrogant. Maybe Joshua thinks he can get by just looking good on TikTok."

"This should've been canceled a long time ago because he's a cheater. Glad it's been exposed."

"Congrats, Joshua. You've been revealed. Bye. I wonder what ABS-CBN execs are thinking now."

Others, however, defended Garcia, arguing that he has the right to his political beliefs.

"Parang OA naman. This is a democratic country. May karapatan din naman siyang mag-express ng point of view niya."

Another user wrote: "I think hindi siya dapat natakot nang ma-call out siya. In fact, dapat panindigan niya 'yun. A healthy political environment exists when people are free to choose leaders who align with their values."

A third commenter added: "Kahit ano pa man ang kulay ng pulitika ni Joshua Garcia, karapatan niya 'yan. We are in a democratic country. Irespeto ang karapatan ng bawat isa. No to cancel culture just because someone chose a different side."

Garcia has yet to issue a statement regarding the controversy.