The Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) Branch 6 has issued a warrant of arrest against Jude Bacalso, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, for the case of grave slander by deed. The charges stem from a July 2024 incident in which Bacalso allegedly berated a restaurant waiter for addressing them as “sir.”
According to reports, the incident went viral on social media after a video surfaced showing Bacalso forcing the waiter to stand in a “parade rest” stance for nearly two hours as punishment. The video sparked widespread reactions, ranging from condemnation of Bacalso’s actions to support for the waiter, who reportedly felt humiliated and traumatized by the ordeal.
As a result, the waiter filed a formal complaint, leading to the court’s issuance of the arrest warrant. The court set bail at ₱18,000 to grant Bacalso temporary liberty while the legal proceedings continue.
Bacalso has yet to issue a public statement regarding the accusations. Meanwhile, the case has captured public attention, highlighting broader issues of respect and proper treatment of workers, as well as sensitivity toward matters of gender identity and expression.
The incident serves as a reminder that human rights and mutual respect should remain the cornerstone of all interactions, regardless of gender or profession. Many are closely following the case, seeing it as an opportunity to foster a deeper understanding of respect, accountability, and equality in society.
Bacalso’s camp has not yet issued a statement.
