Photo credit: Ahron Villena

Ahron Villena is making waves online again, this time with a powerful statement accusing a film director of exploiting him early in his career. In a recent post that has sparked widespread conversation, Ahron recounted a troubling experience from his past, hinting that the director took advantage of him as a newcomer.

Ahron shared a detailed account, saying, "I saw a post where this director was talking about how such scenarios have been happening for a long time. It seemed like he was almost proud of it. Well, if I were to say that I was one of the artists he exploited and that he was the one who did it, I remember clearly how I had to plaster myself in a scene even though I only had a cameo role. A crew member was helping me out, but the director came into the bathroom and told him to leave. He even said, 'You shouldn’t rely on them, I should be the one doing that.' There was no problem with that, but he kept touching me inappropriately. I respected him as a person and director because he was good at his job, but back then, I just said ‘yes’ and kept quiet because I needed to earn. I probably wasn’t the only one he treated this way, even if he doesn’t remember it. I didn’t name him during an interview on Fast Talk out of respect. Even the staff asked me about it, but I kept quiet. I hope he stays silent now. Regardless of whether it’s true or not, such actions should never be tolerated."

Though Ahron didn't mention any names, many are speculating that his comments were aimed at renowned director Joel Lamangan. The director recently made headlines with his own controversial remarks about sexual abuse and harassment in showbiz, saying, "Even before, there were already such things happening. It’s just that they weren’t exposed. Oh my God! Even during the old times, there were already such cases. Many artists who became leading men and became famous came from that situation. So many."

The timing of Ahron’s post and Lamangan’s comments has certainly stirred up discussions, highlighting ongoing issues of exploitation and harassment in the entertainment industry.