Ulli’s Streets of Asia, a popular restaurant in Cebu, has released statements addressing an “altercation” that occurred between one of their wait staff and LGBT+ personality Jude Bacalso on Sunday, July 21.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Ulli’s expressed deep concern over the incident. “We have sat down with the server involved and the rest of the team to console and brief them following the altercation,” the statement read, assuring customers that the welfare of their staff is a top priority. Ulli’s apologized to its guests and emphasized its commitment to inclusivity. “Ulli’s Streets of Asia respects and celebrates people from all walks of life, including our LGBTQIA+ community. Discrimination has no place in our restaurant.”
In a follow-up statement, Ulli’s expressed support for the involved employee. “We stand by our employee involved in the incident. He, along with his teammates, have our support. We aim to provide a safe and respectful environment for both our guests and our people. We are taking steps to better handle these situations moving forward.” The initial statement garnered nearly 7,000 shares, while the follow-up received over 3,000 shares.
The incident sparked widespread attention on social media after a photo of Jude Bacalso allegedly berating the wait staff went viral. Bacalso was reportedly upset after being addressed as “sir.”
Speaking to GMA News Online, Bacalso clarified that she had offered the waiter a chance to sit down and relax, but he declined. “I didn’t say ‘stay there.’ I also didn’t demand,” Bacalso explained. She acknowledged that the waiter made an “honest mistake” and that there was no malice involved. Bacalso used the opportunity to educate the waiter on gender sensitivity, during which a netizen captured a photo of the exchange.
Bacalso also took to Facebook to share her perspective, apologizing to the staff and customers affected by the incident. “This is a huge chunk of humble pie that I must ingest because I have erred,” she admitted. Bacalso mentioned meeting with Ulli’s staff to discuss the incident, although the waiter involved was not present.