VICE GANDA SPEAKS OUT: COCO MARTIN DID NOT REMOVE NIKKO NATIVIDAD FROM ‘BATANG QUIAPO’ — FANS URGED TO STOP SPREADING FALSE RUMORS

In the age of viral headlines and social media speculation, celebrity rumors often snowball into full-blown controversies. Such was the case when netizens began spreading unverified claims that actor and comedian Nikko Natividad had been removed from the popular ABS-CBN series FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, allegedly due to issues with the show’s lead actor and co-director, Coco Martin.

As the rumor gained traction online, fans demanded clarification. Enter Vice Ganda, one of the most influential and outspoken figures in Philippine showbiz, who finally addressed the issue during an episode of It’s Showtime, where he took a firm and heartfelt stand against the misleading claims—defending both Coco Martin and Nikko Natividad, and urging the public to stop making assumptions based on online hearsay.

The Rumor That Started It All

The drama began when Nikko Natividad, known for his comedic timing and roles in various teleseryes, appeared less frequently on Batang Quiapo episodes in recent weeks. Almost immediately, online users began to speculate that he had been “kicked out” of the show by Coco Martin, who is also one of the creative forces behind the primetime hit.

Several vloggers and Facebook pages picked up the story, some even alleging that there had been a heated altercation behind the scenes—allegations that, as it turns out, were completely baseless.

The absence of an immediate clarification from any party involved allowed the rumor to flourish, prompting netizens to demand answers from both Nikko and Coco.

Vice Ganda Sets the Record Straight

On a recent episode of It’s Showtime, Vice Ganda addressed the issue head-on during a candid segment, where he explained the importance of fact-checking and defended both artists.

“Walang katotohanan ‘yung sinasabi ng iba na pinalayas o tinanggal si Nikko sa ‘Batang Quiapo’,” Vice stated.
“Hindi ganun si Coco Martin. Hindi siya mapang-abuso o mapangtaas sa kapwa artista.”

(Translation: “There is no truth to what others are saying—that Nikko was kicked out or removed from Batang Quiapo. Coco Martin is not that kind of person. He is not abusive or arrogant toward fellow artists.”)

Vice went on to explain that Nikko’s absence was due to scheduling conflicts and personal matters, not because of any feud with Coco or problems on set. He also emphasized that Nikko and Coco maintain a good working relationship.

Nikko Natividad Responds: “There’s No Issue”

Shortly after Vice’s clarification, Nikko Natividad himself took to social media to express his gratitude and to clear the air.

“Thank you, Meme Vice, for standing up and telling the truth,” Nikko wrote in an Instagram story.
“Wala po akong sama ng loob kay Coco. Hindi po ako tinanggal. May mga ibang priorities lang ako ngayon.”

(Translation: “I have no hard feelings toward Coco. I wasn’t removed. I just have other priorities right now.”)

He went on to explain that he is currently focusing on his family and other personal commitments, but has not closed the door on future appearances on Batang Quiapo.

Coco Martin Remains Silent but Supportive

While Coco Martin has not made an official statement regarding the issue, those close to the actor say he is well aware of the rumors and has chosen to stay silent out of respect for his colleagues and the show’s integrity.

Insiders say Coco prefers to let his actions speak louder than words, and has expressed his appreciation for Vice Ganda’s defense. According to sources, Coco continues to maintain a harmonious environment on set and treats all cast members equally.

Fans Divided But Grateful for Clarification

The issue has divided netizens. While many praised Vice Ganda for speaking up and ending the speculation, others remained skeptical, saying that only an official statement from Coco or the show’s producers could fully settle the matter.

Still, the majority of fans expressed relief over the clarification, and applauded both Vice and Nikko for handling the issue with maturity.

“Thank you Vice Ganda for always speaking the truth,” one fan tweeted.
“People are so quick to believe chismis. Let’s respect artists’ privacy.”

“Now that Nikko confirmed there’s no issue, can we all just stop the drama?” another posted on Facebook.

The Role of Social Media in Fueling Misinformation

This controversy once again highlights the role of social media in spreading misinformation. What started as a fan theory based on limited information quickly turned into a trending topic, damaging reputations and sowing division among fandoms.

Vice Ganda took the opportunity to call for more responsible media consumption, urging fans to think critically before sharing or commenting on rumors.

“Hindi porke’t may nagsabi online, totoo na agad. Sana tayo mismo ang mag-ingat sa mga sinasabi natin,” Vice said.

(Translation: “Just because someone says it online, doesn’t mean it’s true. We should all be more careful with our words.”)

What’s Next for Nikko Natividad and ‘Batang Quiapo’?

Despite the noise, Nikko Natividad remains open to returning to FPJ’s Batang Quiapo when the timing is right. He assured fans that he has not burned any bridges, and that he continues to support the show and its cast.

Batang Quiapo, on the other hand, continues to dominate primetime ratings, thanks in part to Coco Martin’s dedication and the support of its loyal audience.

As for Vice Ganda, the comedian once again proves why he is one of the most respected and influential voices in the industry—not just for his talent, but for his integrity and courage to defend the truth.

Conclusion

The recent controversy involving Nikko Natividad and Coco Martin is a sobering reminder of the power and danger of unchecked rumors. Fortunately, Vice Ganda’s bold intervention brought much-needed clarity to the situation, revealing the importance of speaking up in the face of false narratives.

While fans are relieved to know that there is no real conflict between Nikko and Coco, the incident serves as a valuable lesson: Not everything on the internet is true, and in the world of showbiz, silence is not always a sign of guilt.

With truth now out in the open, supporters can return to what really matters—celebrating Filipino talent, unity, and respect within the entertainment industry.