Broadcast network ABS-CBN on Sunday expressed its support to actress Angel Locsin who's recently caught up in a controversy after a senior citizen, who fainted while lining up on her birthday community pantry last April 23, died.
"ABS-CBN believes in the goodness of the heart of our Kapamilya Angel Locsin, who in her personal capacity has tirelessly helped our countrymen in times of crisis," the network, which houses Locsin as talent, said in a statement.
"We admire her commitment to continue serving the Filipino people with selfless dedication and love. We stand by her and thank her for being a shining example of generosity, accountability, and compassion," added ABS-CBN.
In a report from Holy Spirit Police Station, the victim was identified as 67-year-old Rolando deal Cruz, a resident of the same barangay. He was immediately rushed to East Avenue Medical Center but was declared dead on arrival past 9 AM.
Dela Cruz was just among the hundreds of people who flocked the community pantry of Locsin as a celebration of her 36th birthday. The actress earlier reminded those who will drop by to observe minimum health protocols. However, social distancing was nearly impossible in the area due to the huge crowd.
The actress later turned to social media to apologize for the untimely death of the senior citizen.
“sa tingin ko, tama lang po na sa akin ninyo na marinig na totoo po ang balita na may inatake at namatay habang nasa pila ng community pantry,” Angel wrote on her Instagram post.
“humihingi po ako ng tawad sa pamilya. Kanina po pinuntahan at nakapagusap po kami ng personal ng mga anak nya sa ospital. At habang buhay po ako hihingi ng patawad sa kanila,” she added.
Meanwhile the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) urged residents to avail the free COVID-19 swab test offered by the city government if they went to Locsin's community pantry.
