Actress and digital influencer Ivana Alawi is facing intense internet scrutiny following a massive follower giveaway that stirred up significant public debate.
On July 15, Alawi announced her plan to distribute 100 units of the iPhone 17, uploading a video document of her purchasing the smartphones for approximately ₱4.28 million.
”Happy ako dahil 100 tao ang makakatanggap at magagamit niyo ito,” she said in the video.
The initial enthusiasm for the raffle quickly soured into disapproval as netizens noticed that participating required users to follow the social media page of a digital betting platform she promotes.
Defending the rules, Alawi clarified that the gambling firm co-sponsored the raffle and that the recipients would be chosen directly from that account’s follower list.
”Gusto talaga nila na marami ang mabigyan kaya tumulong sila. All you have to do is follow their page, kasi do’n tayo kukuha ng random followers na makakapag-uwi ng iPhone 17,” she said.
Even with the mounting disapproval, the promotional post went viral, racking up over 7.3 million reactions and close to 5.9 million comments on Facebook.
Nevertheless, critics expressed deep concern over the gambling-related condition, warning that the campaign could inadvertently drive more internet users toward online wagering.
Alawi has yet to issue a public statement regarding the negative feedback surrounding the event.