When I first saw the video of a Christopher Lao driving through a flooded street and the subsequent interview, I must admit that I found the incident hilarious. I posted my fair share of cheap shots at the poor fellow. The video became viral and Lao became an overnight internet sensation. This was a textbook case of cyber-bullying. And I took part in it.
It took a subtle message from a friend (who happens to know Lao himself) to realize that the incident has been blown out of proportion.
My sincerest apologies to Christopher Lao.
The least I can do is unlike the aforesaid Facebook pages and re-post Lao's official statement.
Official Statement from Christopher Lao
4 August 2011
The past few days have been very disheartening for me and my family. As you know I have been a subject of a viral video that showed my helplessness during a trying moment. As it stands right now, I have several hate pages in Facebook and Twitter with hurtful and derogatory messages attacking my person. The reputation that I built the past years has been besmirched. A bad day has now turned into wounded feelings and sleepless nights for me and my family.
I have been silent the past few days as I want this to go away soon but not before saying sorry and thank you to people who matter.
I would like to apologize for my behavior that was seen on nationwide television and now on the internet. It was unfortunate that I was caught on camera immediately after an overwhelmingly stressful mishap.
I would like to again sincerely thank those who braved the flood to help a distraught stranger like me. Their selfless act reminded me of how dependable Filipinos are in times of crisis.
Lastly, I would like to thank my family, friends and all of those who showed empathy, consideration and support throughout these trying times. You have given me strength and courage to rise above and be a better person.
Sincerely yours,
Christopher Lao
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