Filipino Olympian EJ Obiena proves he’s the pambansang jowa by standing firm against alcohol and gambling endorsements.
EJ Obiena has once again shown why he totally deserves to be dubbed the nation’s boyfriend.
With his charming smile, killer fashion sense, and amazing sense of humor, not to mention his impressive athletic skills, EJ Obiena is definitely a source of pride for the country.
But what really sets him apart is how he stays true to his principles, especially with the brands he supports.
The Filipino Olympian took to social media to call out companies trying to connect his name to gambling and alcohol products without his permission. He made it clear that this goes against his values of promoting a healthy and thriving society.
“I am dragging myself to share stuff like this, but it’s necessary to inform all of you that I don’t endorse gambling!!!” he wrote on Instagram.
“I would like to reassure everyone that I pick and choose very carefully which products/brand I endorse/promote. It’s never “just about the money” but it has to be a product I can believe in; and also, a product that doesn’t undermine values; and supports a healthy and thriving society,” Obiena added.
Even though alcohol and gambling can be legal, EJ knows the impact he has and uses his platform to inspire the younger generation to prioritize honor and responsibility.
“The latter is why I have refused to endorse alcoholic products and/or gambling businesses. Whilst both may be legal, it is irrefutable, both are regulated for a reason, and both are restricted from children. I recognize I have a platform that could influence kids, and I understand and embrace this responsibility with honor and humility. I won’t hence endorse products like this,” he wrote.
Obiena has announced that he will not endorse any alcoholic products. He clarified that any claims from companies suggesting his endorsement are false.
“Unfortunately, some companies will attempt to loosely link myself, my name, and my image to such categories without my approval. Implying I endorse their product or their casino. I DO NOT. Whilst my lawyers are pursuing this kind of “Guerilla” marketing legally, I wanted to in-parallel tell everyone directly I am in no way endorsing any alcohol or gambling related products. Ever. Never ever.”
EJ Obiena is absolutely worth stanning.
Just another green flag for our nation’s boyfriend!
Read the whole statement here: