Julie Anne San Jose has found herself in the middle of controversy after a performance at a church in Occidental Mindoro. The event, part of a concert for a cause, titled “Heavenly Harmony in Concert: Harana para kay Maria,” was held at the Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine in Mamburao. However, it was San Jose’s rendition of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” in front of the church altar that drew sharp criticism from some members of the public.
The benefit concert aimed to raise funds for the improvement of the church, and San Jose performed a set that included popular songs such as Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb,” Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory,” and a few Original Pilipino Music (OPM) hits. While the concert’s charitable intentions were appreciated, many felt that the choice of songs, particularly “Dancing Queen,” was inappropriate for a sacred space like a church.
The performance has since sparked heated debates online. Critics argue that the church is a place of worship and should not host songs that could be considered secular or out of place in a religious setting. Many took to social media to express their disapproval, with some saying that the church altar should not be used as a concert venue for such songs. Others called out the organizers, saying they should have been more discerning in selecting the songs performed at the event.
Despite the backlash, some defended the singer and the concert. Supporters pointed out that the event was a benefit concert for the church’s renovation and should be seen as a good cause. They further emphasized that Julie Anne San Jose was merely performing the setlist given to her and that the issue should be directed toward the organizers.
As of now, neither Julie Anne San Jose nor the Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine has issued an official statement regarding the controversy. While the concert raised funds for a noble cause, the mixed public reaction highlights the sensitivity surrounding the use of religious venues for secular performances.