MANILA -- Actress Coleen Garcia on Tuesday came to her husband's defense, after singer-host Billy Crawford was subjected to criticism over his appearance.

Crawford was a trending topic on social media due to his leaner physique and natural look, which spurred a slew of negative comments from netizens. 

Garcia, with a touch of love and humor, gave a reality check for the naysayers while posting her own imperfections in a series of Instagram Stories.

"There's this viral photo kasi of Billy going around kaya I felt the need to address it without directly addressing it," said Coleen, referring to a snapshot that has been circulating on social media, causing quite a stir among fans and bashers alike. 

The photo in question showcases Billy in a light seldom seen by the public, devoid of the makeup and styling that accompanies his television appearances.

Coleen Garcia's response to her husband's critics. IG/@coleen

The actress then sheds light on what is often hidden behind the camera. "Actually, I don't know if you've ever seen him before without makeup. But long before we even started dating, he's always had dark under eye circles and major hair loss na," she revealed.

It's an intimate revelation that humanizes the man often seen as an indefatigable entertainer on shows like "Showtime" and "ASAP."

Garcia pointed out that Crawford's current appearance is nothing out of the ordinary for those who know him offstage.

"Natatago lang talaga pag naka hair and makeup," she said. She emphasizes that the "major hair loss" and "dark circles" have always been part of Billy's look, well before their relationship began, and that the only real change is his weight loss.

"I wish we had photos from 10 years ago to show na he's always had those dark circles and matagal na siyang walang hair," she says with a hint of jest. 

This statement not only defends her husband's natural look but also calls out the unrealistic standards set by the industry and the public's perception of celebrities, most importantly the pressure to always appear picture-perfect.

Coleen's heartfelt words are a reminder that the glitz and glamor seen on screen are often just a veneer. "Syempre people just see the glammed-up version of us lang, which isn't really how we look on a daily basis," she said.

In speaking out, Garcia seeks not just to protect her husband from the harsh glare of public opinion but also to champion the right of individuals to be comfortable in their own skin, famous or not. She also assures their fans that they are doing "better than ever," though she candidly reveals the pressures of their demanding schedules.

"Medyo ngarag lang cause we've both been working more than usual while balancing a lot of things. Lalo na si Billy. He's out of town now overnight lang, but he just came from France for a month, then he's leaving for the US next week,"  Coleen shared.

The international component of Billy's schedule is notably packed, with extended periods away from home. "He'll mostly be in France again for the remainder of the year, ang daming travels," said Coleen.

Her statements not only set the record straight regarding her husband's well-being but also highlight the strength of their relationship amidst the constant buzz of show business.