Jennylyn Mercado and Patrick Garcia controversy resurfaces

A long-standing controversy involving Filipino actresses Jennylyn Mercado and her former partner Patrick Garcia has resurfaced following an interview given by Garcia to vlogger Ogie Diaz. In the interview, Garcia disputed claims that he abandoned Mercado during her pregnancy, asserting instead that Mercado chose to end communication at that time. He also stated he supported their son, Jazz, until 2017.

In response to the renewed discussion, lawyer and producer Joji Alonzo expressed support for Mercado, praising her decision to prioritize motherhood and her son’s needs over her career during her pregnancy. Alonzo also questioned Garcia’s long-term involvement in his son’s life.

While Mercado has opted to remain silent to protect her family's privacy, her management and supporters have reacted. GMA Network has drawn attention from netizens by reuploading archival news reports regarding the original 2008 dispute. Additionally, Mercado’s husband, Dingdong Dantes, and her manager, Becky Aguila, have also been noted for their indirect responses to the situation.