A major controversy has erupted in Philippine showbiz as a viral video shows veteran host Joey de Leon allegedly groping Atasha Muhlach — live on the set of Eat Bulaga. The unsettling footage, captured during a live segment, has triggered an online firestorm, with fans demanding answers, accountability, and immediate action.

The clip, which has been viewed and shared hundreds of thousands of times within hours, shows Joey sitting beside Atasha when he suddenly places his hand in a questionable area, prompting a brief but visible reaction from the young host. Atasha, while trying to maintain her composure, appears uncomfortable as she slightly recoils.

“We all saw it. Why isn’t anyone saying anything?”
That’s the question echoing across social media. Viewers are stunned — and angry — not only because of the incident itself but because of the complete silence from the network, the production team, and the hosts.

“This isn’t just a blooper. It’s a serious boundary being crossed on national television,” one Facebook comment read. “Atasha didn’t look like she was in on the joke — she looked shocked.”

Another netizen posted: “It wasn’t scripted. It wasn’t funny. It was wrong. And it happened in front of all of us.”

Support for Atasha Floods In
Atasha Muhlach, just 23, is one of the newest faces on the iconic noontime show. As the daughter of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, she stepped into the spotlight with grace and poise — and now, viewers say, she’s been put in an impossible position.

Thousands have come to her defense online, saying she was clearly trying to stay professional despite being caught in an uncomfortable moment.

“She’s new, she’s surrounded by industry veterans, and she’s on live TV. Of course she smiled through it. What choice did she have?” one user wrote.

Industry Culture Under Scrutiny
This isn’t the first time Joey de Leon has faced backlash for his behavior or controversial remarks. Over the years, he’s been called out for insensitive jokes, often brushing off criticism under the guise of “comedy.”

But critics now say this is beyond comedy — it’s harassment, and should no longer be ignored or excused.

“Enough with the ‘that’s just Joey being Joey’ excuse,” a viral tweet stated. “He crossed a line. And there needs to be consequences.”

No Comment from ‘Eat Bulaga’ or Network Executives
As of this writing, neither Eat Bulaga nor Joey de Leon himself has issued any public statement regarding the incident. The silence has only intensified calls for transparency and accountability.

Fans and watchdog groups are now pressuring the network to review the footage, issue a formal investigation, and make clear where they stand.

“If this was a mistake, explain it. If not, then action needs to be taken. Because silence in the face of this kind of behavior is complicity,” said a statement from one women’s advocacy group.

What Happens Next?
With the video still making rounds online and gaining traction internationally, the pressure on both Joey de Leon and the show’s producers is at an all-time high. Netizens are already urging advertisers to reconsider their support for the program unless the matter is addressed.

“This moment can’t be swept under the rug,” another viewer said. “Not when everyone saw it. Not when a young woman may have been disrespected — live, on national TV.”

Until the show or the network breaks its silence, the questions will only grow louder.

What really happened on that set? Why hasn’t anyone spoken up? And how long will the public wait before someone takes responsibility?