Derek Ramsay is again in the hot seat, this time for inserting himself into the ongoing drama between Andi Eigenmann and Philmar Alipayo.
The actor’s comments on the issue, particularly his strong defense of his friend, Swedish marine photographer Pernilla Sjöö, have sparked criticism from netizens who believe he has no place in the conflict.
Social media users quickly slam Derek for involvement in the couple’s private matters. Some accused him of being more vocal than necessary, with one commenter saying,“Derek sawsawero, mas matalak pa sa babae hehe!” – Villahermosa Evangelio Bing
Another netizen criticized him for seemingly prioritizing his friendship over the family involved in the issue, “To Derek Ramsay, Andi has the right to be hurt, and the family should be a priority over past friendships, whether with a girl or a boy. The other girl’s initiative for a couple tattoo was done in bad taste and was disrespectful to Philmar’s partner.” – Cecile Abellera Lumayag
Meanwhile, others questioned his credibility, given his own history of highly publicized breakups and relationship controversies, “Coming from you talaga, Derek and Ellen? Ano ba credibility niyo?” – Joena Ceralvo
Despite the backlash, Derek remained firm in his stance, calling out Philmar and defending Pernilla during an interview on Ogie Diaz’s YouTube vlog.
Derek to Philmar: “Magpakalalaki ka”
In the February 12 interview, Derek did not hesitate to address Philmar, urging him to “man up” and take responsibility for the controversy. He criticized Philmar for allowing Andi to bring their personal matters to social media and for failing to defend Pernilla, who has been heavily bashed online.
“I wish Philmar… excuse me for using this term, but have the balls to be a man. Magpakalalaki ka. Ayusin mo ang problema mo sa asawa mo. Unahin mo yan, tama ka diyan. Pero huwag mong bastusin yung taong tumulong sa ‘yo sa lahat ng problema mo. Ipagtanggol mo yung tao.”
Derek was referring to the social media firestorm after Andi posted about the couple tattoo that Philmar and Pernilla got together. The post led to harsh criticism against Pernilla, with many accusing her of disrespecting Andi and overstepping boundaries.
Defending Pernilla: “She didn’t mean to hurt Andi”
Derek was adamant that Pernilla had no ill intentions in getting the tattoo with Philmar. While he acknowledged that it was inappropriate given cultural differences, he insisted that she did not intend to betray Andi or cause harm.
“Yes, I told her the tattoo was wrong. But I understand it was a cultural difference because she’s not from here. She’s willing to accept that and apologize. But her intent was not to hurt Andi or steal her husband.”
He also revealed that Pernilla had tried to contact Andi and Philmar to resolve the issue privately. However, he expressed frustration that Philmar did not do more to defend his longtime friend.
“Imagine mo, your so-called best friend, siya pa yung nag-reach out sa ‘yo, Philmar, para gumawa ng statement. And ang sinabi mo lang, ‘I know’?”
Netizens fire back: “Why are you so invested?”
Derek’s comments did not sit well with many netizens, who questioned why he was so deeply involved in an issue that should have remained between Andi, Philmar, and Pernilla. Many felt that his statements were unnecessary and only added fuel to the fire.
Some pointed out the irony of Derek preaching about keeping relationship issues private when he himself has had multiple highly publicized breakups. Others called him out for seemingly blaming Andi for bringing the issue to light instead of holding Philmar accountable for his actions.
One netizen sarcastically commented, “Wow, Derek, you’re more passionate about this than Philmar himself. Maybe you should let them handle their own mess?”
A messy ending
While Andi and Philmar have reportedly patched things up, the controversy surrounding Pernilla remains unresolved, with netizens continuing to bash her online. Despite the criticism, Derek stood by his words and maintained that the issue should have been handled privately.
“This should all have been handled in private. Sana okay na rin kayo.”
Whether his involvement helped or worsened the situation remains debatable, but one thing is clear—Derek Ramsay has once again found himself at the center of another controversy.