Charice: Out & proud

IN THIS 2009 photo, girly Charice welcomes the Inquirer to her Tagaytay home. INQSnap this page to see more photos and her TV interview! photo by Andrew Tadalan

We always knew she wouldn’t forever wear those little-girl hair clips prescribed by Oprah Winfrey. But though the timing was curious (it sure got a scandalous colleague off the headlines for now), Charice’s coming out was a relief. Hasn’t the public been speculating on this for about a year now? At press time, all of cyberspace is buzzing. Fellow celebs weigh in via Twitter and Facebook.

Lea Salonga

“Dear [Charice]: Have you any idea how many young people you inspired [with this]? More power, blessings and love to you!”

Monique Wilson

BUBBLES Paraiso

“So proud of you, Charice! We are all behind you. There is no need to apologize for anything. You are an inspiration! I so deeply honor you for your courage and honesty. This is true empowerment—for a beautiful young woman to say she is coming out because she loves herself and wants to be true to herself, despite fears of consequences to one’s career. You are and will always be an amazing singer, a national pride… Nothing can ever take that away. May your light continue to shine. Deepest respect and admiration for you.”

BB Gandanghari

“My two cents worth: Sexual orientation is never a choice but coming out is always an option. I’m happy for you. It takes a lot of courage to finally come to terms with your being. Stay in love. You’re happy, I can see.”

Julius Babao

JULIUS Babao

“Way to go, inaanak (godchild). Your ninang (godmother Christine Babao) and I will always be here for you.”

Bianca Gonzalez

“Happy for Charice for coming out gay and proud. You are no less of a person and artist. Don’t mind the bashers.”

ZENDEE file photo

Zendee

“I hate seeing Charice crying. It breaks my heart. But I’m happy for her. I love her so much.”

Bubbles Paraiso

“Charice is out of the closet. Did that take her talent away… change her voice? No. Same talented person, just happier.”

AUBREY Miles

Aubrey Miles

“I salute your courage. God bless you more.”

Liza Diño

“Cheers to being free. You moved me to tears. Hugs to you.”

Anton Diva

“Better to tell the truth than hide it. Let’s respect her coming out. I’m still a fan!”

BIANCA Gonzalez

Sebastian Castro

“So very proud of Charice for coming out! All [that] your real fans want is for you to live the life you want.”

Cesca Litton

“And the truth shall set you free. Your talent is still incomparable. Be you. Be proud. Go, Charice.”

Aicelle Santos

“There’s freedom in truth. Happy for Charice! Being gay/lesbian doesn’t make you less of a person.”

Perez Hilton

BB GANDANGHARI

“So proud of you! You are opening doors and hearts and minds with your bravery and honesty! Leading by example! Big hug!”

Rep. Luz Ilagan of Gabriela

“More than just being an amazing and talented singer, Charice is one brave girl. She deserves our respect, admiration.”

Tim Tayag

“Charice comes out and reveals she’s lesbian. But she still has not revealed the identity of her stylist. Too soon?”