Drew Olivar apologizes for ‘insensitive’ sign-language video

Blogger Andrew "Drew" Olivar on Monday apologized for a video in which he mockingly pretended to be a hearing-speech impaired person.

In a Facebook video, Olivar explained that some of his friends had suggested that he delay his apology until Tuesday.

"Kung alam ko talagang mali ako, mali ako. Bakit... papatagalin pa?" he explained.

"Alam kong mali ako. Mali ako. Kaya't heto, humihingi ako ng tawad po sa deaf community, sa mga may [speech impairment]... lalo na po sa PWD community. Ako po ay... nagpapakumbaba."

Olivar went on to say that his behavior, which was "insensitive" and "childish," was inexcusable.

Furthermore, he realized that his actions were hurtful given that he had friends and an uncle who were also physically challenged.

"Kailangan ko talagang [mag-apologize], hindi para sa sarili ko. Pero para sa tama. Yun ang tama kasi."

Olivar was heavily criticized for a September 14 video posted on Presidential Communications Group  Assistant Secretary Margaux "Mocha" Uson's Facebook account, in which he pretended to be a hearing-speech impaired person by flailing his arms around in pretend sign language while making squeaking sounds.

Uson, for her part, promised to be "more active" in guiding Olivar in any future video post. — DVM, GMA News