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Lea Salonga was a trending topic on Twitter last week after she posted the words, “Dear Pilipinas, p******ina, ang hirap mong mahalin” on her Facebook account.

The said post has since been deleted and has received a backlash of comments from bashers and critics alike.

Lea Salonga's cursing post dated on June 15 that has since been deleted / Source: Lea Salonga (Facebook)

A week later, the award-winning international singer and actress clarified her post by saying she did not intend to curse the Philippines.

She said, “Hi, gang. It seems a recent Facebook post of mine has gotten quite a bit of attention and launched all sorts of… I don't even know what word to use, so I thought to use this platform and this space to offer some clarification in the hope that I'm more clearly understood.

“Regarding the post itself, yes, I stand by every single word I wrote as an expression of my frustration with certain events currently taking place in our country. However, contrary to what some of you might believe, I never, NOT EVER, cursed the Philippines.”

Lea reiterated that while she did use a curse word, it was aimed at no one and was used “as an outburst, a cry.”

Adding, “To serve her [Philippines] is one of my greatest honors. To be able to hold my head up high and say 'Yes, I am Filipino' representing the hundreds of millions of brethren both here at home and all over the world is a source of pride and pleasure.

“So, to further clarify, I didn't say p- i- mo, or p- i- ka. If that was what I meant, I would've been explicit in my expression. My p- i- was aimed at no one in particular and was used only as an outburst, a cry. My apologies if I hurt your feelings with my choice of words.

“If after following this post you decide to cuss me out, you're well within your right to do so. I totally understand and get that you're doing it as one tasked to protect our country from anyone that dares to desecrate it. Know though that it was not my intent.”

She then extended her gratitude to her fans who have supported her feelings and appreciate those who decided to hear her side of the story.

“To my fans and friends that have my back, you have no idea the amount of appreciation I hold in my heart for your tireless efforts to explain my side of things.

“Thank you so much. You will always have my gratitude.”

To my fans and friends that have my back, you have no idea the amount of appreciation I hold in my heart for your tireless efforts to explain my side of things. Thank you so much. You will always have my gratitude.

Okay, that's all for now. Please enjoy the rest of your day. 6/6

-- Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) June 22, 2020

In the comments section, a lot of Lea's adoring fans also stood their ground and thanked her for airing out her sentiments online.

One said, “Posting these tweets and explaining your Facebook post is an epitome of your humility and sense of accountability. Even if you don't even have to explain yourself, you hold yourself fully accountable for your words and actions.”

Another wrote, “Thank you for standing up for those whose voices are not heard. Thank you for bringing so much pride in our country. Thank you always for being you, Miss.”

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