Netizens shared their thoughts on Ivana Alawi and Kara David’s recent recognition
Kapamilya actress Ivana Alawi and multi-awarded journalist Kara David tied for Best Host for Public Service at the inaugural FAMAS Broadcast Arts Awards, held on July 20, 2026, at the Manila Hotel.
The Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) expanded into digital and broadcast media. Ivana and Kara tied for Best Host for Public Service.
The actress-vlogger’s vlog also won Best Public Service Show, while the Kapuso journalist won Best Documentary for Embalsamador de Motor under the Kapuso documentary show I-Witness. Kara was also named Best Public Affairs Talk Show for I-Listen.
Fans and supporters of both women congratulated them and expressed happiness for their recent achievements. However, some netizens expressed dismay over FAMAS‘s choice to give the same award to Ivana Alawi and Kara David.
A netizen shared a write-up on Reddit, under ChikaPH. “Let’s not confuse generosity with public service. Being kind and giving is admirable, but public service is about serving the public interest even when it means questioning those in power and taking difficult stands. They’re not the same!!!” the caption of the post stated.
The write-up questioned whether Ivana and Kara are just doing the same; then what does it even mean when the latter became a journalist? It also questioned if the same standard is being applied in journalism and content creation.
“Public service is more than creating content that inspires people or giving occasional acts of charity,” the write-up stated. On the other hand, it pointed out that there is nothing wrong in being an influencer, like Ivana Alawi, who uses his platform to help and bring happiness to other people.
However, the write-up stressed that giving help and journalism are two different fields. “Ang mas nakakalungkot, unti-unti na tayong nasasanay na-iequate ang kasikatan sa kredibilidad,” it stated.
The write-up also pointed out that influencers deserve recognition for their contribution, but journalism deserves recognition for “commitment to truth, accountability, and public service.”
In the comment section of the Reddit post, several netizens agreed with the write-up as they also stressed that Ivana Alawi and Kara David are not in the same category.