Miel Pangilinan, one of Kiko Pangilinan and Sharon Cuneta's daughters, is celebrating Pride Month making public her own gender preference.
She did so via social media, posting on Instagram a photo of her draped in the rainbow flag, a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and queer pride.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CeyVdT-OZxr/
Miel wrote, "This June, I am celebrating my first pride month as openly and publicly queer.
She went on, "I really can’t figure out the words to say right now. it’s a really emotional and freeing time right now, and I’m endlessly thankful to my close friends and family who have supported me and shown me love as I’ve grown and explored my own gender and sexual identity."
Miel related how "cathartic" it is for her to finally be able to openly convey her identity.
"I know it sounds silly, but posting this truly feels cathartic. I’ve spent so many sleepless nights over the span of much of my childhood and teenage life worrying and wondering about a plethora of things surrounding my identity, and it only feels right that I post this at the point I’m in now where I’m comfortable enough in who I am and who I love and how I choose to present. it’s kind of a full circle moment for me, in a way.
"I’m also incredibly thankful that I am able to safely celebrate my identity this year, as I know there are many of people in this country that don’t have the same privilege. We’ve got a long way to go in terms of our fight for equality, but that is not to discredit the work and sacrifices made by queer Filipinos throughout history and in the present day, who have done so much to make our voices heard and have helped us go farther than where we were before.
"I’ve also got a lot to learn and understand as a newer member of the Filipino queer community, and I'm trying my best to educate myself on current situations and present issues relating to gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights in our country, and I am always open to learn as much as I can especially from other figures in our community.
"Happiest and safest of pride months, allies and members of the queer community alike."
She then used the hashtags #prideph#phpride#pridemonth#pride#sapphic#queer
Several showbiz friends were quick to offer her support including Kiana Valenciano, Sam Cruz and Judy Ann Santos who commented, "We love you Yellie!!"
Miel's sisters, KC Concepcion and Frankie Pangilinan, showed her some love too.
KC wrote, "Congratulations. I’m so proud of you!!! I love you sister. I’m always going to be here for you as your « ate » no matter what. Happy pride!!!"
Frankie shared, "Das my baby...I love you."