Governor Salceda vs. Xian Lim : THE TALE OF THE SOUVENIR SHIRT

The rift between Xian Lim and Albay Governor Joey Salceda over the former’s alleged impolite behavior during an event in Albay has caught my attention.

The conflict arose from Xian’s refusal to accept Albayanon souvenir items that included a t-shirt, a coffee table book, a small bag, and some leaflets. Apparently, such items are the usual tokens given to distinguished visitors of the province.

According to Salceda’s chief of staff, Atty. Caroline Cruz, she initially gave the t-shirt to Xian. But unfortunately, it was immediately turned away by him.

She then offered the coffee table book. Xian looked at it for a moment and said – “I did not come here to promote Albay.” In other words, he refused it as well.

I really don’t know the reason why Xian was in Albay in the first place, until I watched Atty. Cruz’s interview. And so I learned that the celebrity was invited to grace Fiestang Tsinoy, and his appearance was paid accordingly.

His gesture of refusing the gifts was impolite, whatever his reasons were. I am more than confident that the material offerings stemmed from the good will, appreciation, and courtesy of the people of Albay. He could have reciprocated by yes, accepting their offerings.

As a public figure, much is expected of him. No one is perfect, but I really don’t know what issues he had with the t-shirt and the coffee table book (and the other items).

In his tweets however, Xian explained his side by relaying the exact words he said to Atty. Cruz: “Sorry po, hindi ko maisuot yung tshirt kasi baka magka conflict sa clothing endorsement ko. Pasensya na po.”
 

But guests are not required to wear the t-shirt according to Governor Salceda in one of his tweets.

I find Xian’s reason as lavishly ridiculous. I don’t think Bench will create a tumult if he will be caught wearing the souvenir shirt, unless the shirt was made by Penshoppe or other rival brands, which I doubt to the heavens.

Besides, are all articles of clothing in his closet 100 percent by Bench? This I doubt to the heavens too.

As in any story, there will always be two sides to it, or even more. Just recently, Kim Chiu came to Xian’s rescue by saying “wag po sana tayo mag judge agad ng tao, lalo na po, if wala tayo mismo doon.”

Things would not have turned this way had Xian simply accepted the souvenir items. Fine with me if had issues with the t-shirt. But how about the coffee table book?

You are not being asked to promote Albay.

You are being asked to show some courtesy and respect.