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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Lea Salonga's son credits Jake Zyrus for support in his testosterone journey

Lea Salonga's son credits Jake Zyrus for support in his testosterone journey

Published Mar 24, 2026 12:49 am  |  Updated Mar 24, 2026 08:52 am

Nic Chien, theater actor, singer, and son of Broadway legend Lea Salonga, has revealed that he turned to Jake Zyrus — formerly known as Charice Pempengco — for guidance on taking testosterone.

In a candid appearance on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,” Nic shared that he personally reached out to Jake before beginning his testosterone journey.

Nic Chien (YouTube)
Nic Chien (YouTube)

“I had talked to other trans guys, I talked to kuya—yes, kuya Jake Zyrus (Brother Jake Zyrus)—and I talked to him about, ‘Hey, did you know right away?,’ and I forgot exactly what he said,” he said.

Despite feeling anxious about making a decision for his body, Nic said that Jake was very thoughtful in guiding him.

“I remember that his advice was very sweet. He told me to take certain vitamins,” he added.

The 19-year-old singer also shared the type of questions he posed to Jake.

“I was like, ‘How did you know [na] talaga gusto mo ‘to? Like, did you ever change your mind? You know, because if I changed my mind, what am I gonna do? (I was like, ‘How did you know you really wanted this? Did you ever change your mind? Because if I changed my mind, what would I do?),” he said.

Reflecting on his challenging journey as a trans man, Nic said he is happy with his decision.

“I’m young, and you know my mind is still developing, I don’t know. But, honestly, I think that I have no regrets about taking testosterone. No regrets at all,” he added.

Being young and uncertain about his gender identity, Nic expressed his gratitude to his parents.

“I’m so grateful that my mom is so supportive in letting me do it—and you know—that she just, all she really wants is for me to be happy. And so does my dad,” he shared.

Nic also shared his thoughts on people who criticize members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Whoever thinks being queer or gay or trans is a choice. No, it’s not a choice. If I had the choice to only like women, I would choose that. Like I, but like, because like, I mean, it’s God… You know, not to get all religious or whatever, but God made us this way. If we had, I think if there was an easier way out, we would have chosen it a long time ago,” Nic added. (Contributed by Elizza H. Callos)

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