These celebrity parents are boldly stepping forward to publicly champion their queer children, dismantling stigma and redefining familial love with heartfelt support and pride
In the Philippines, where traditional values often intersect with evolving views on gender and sexuality, a wave of celebrity parents is boldly expressing pride and support for their queer children. These public figures are creating nurturing, inclusive spaces within their families while challenging societal norms that have long stigmatized homosexuality and unconventional gender identities.
Through their visibility and heartfelt words, they are helping to shift cultural attitudes and inspire broader acceptance.
1. Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan
Sharon Cuneta, the “Megastar,” and her husband, former Senator Kiko Pangilinan, have both championed their daughter Miel Pangilinan, who came out as queer in June 2022. Sharon shared on Instagram, “All I will say is that I love all my children and will support them in their lives and choices,” adding that Miel’s identity was “no big deal” and that she’d have “a happier daughter who is now ‘free.’”
Kiko reinforced this in a comment on her post: “I love you my Yellie Bellie! Mama and I will always be there for you. Always. For certain. Forever. No matter what.” Together, their high-profile support as entertainment and political icons fosters a loving environment for Miel, challenging the idea that queerness disrupts family harmony.
2. Jackie Lou Blanco and Ricky Davao
Veteran actress Jackie Lou Blanco and actor Ricky Davao have proudly supported their daughter Rikki Mae Davao, who identifies as a lesbian. In a 2024 episode of Sarap ‘Di ba?, Jackie recalled sensing Rikki’s truth early, responding with “I know” when she came out, and said, “…if you focus on the fact that you love your child, I think, little by little it will be normal” when asked for advice for parents struggling to accept their queer children.
Ricky, in the same episode, shared his reaction to Rikki’s heartfelt coming-out letter: “Tinanggap ko kaagad ‘yun. Walang hesitation. Basta para sa akin, I told her, kung saan siya happy, doon siya, ”. Their united front as respected showbiz figures creates a nurturing space, countering societal biases with love and respect.
3. Ian Veneracion
Actor Ian Veneracion has been a vocal ally to his daughter Deirdre (Dids), who came out as a lesbian at 16. In a 2020 Magandang Buhay interview, he recounted telling her, “Just don’t ever be apologetic about it. Not even to me,” adding, “Hiding who you really are is a waste of life.”
While his wife Pam Gallardo keeps a lower profile, Ian’s public stance as a father fosters an environment where Dids can live authentically, challenging norms that demand conformity.
4. Gloc-9
Rapper Gloc-9 turned his pride for his gay son, Daniel, into art with his hit “Sirena,” a beloved LGBTQIA+ anthem. In an ABS-CBN News interview, he shared, “Ako ay proud na proud sa anak ko” and “I’m excited sa kung ano man ang kaya niyang ma-achieve sa buhay niya”. While his wife Thea Pollisco’s sentiments are less public, Gloc-9’s visibility as a father and artist creates a supportive space for Daniel, dismantling stigma through music and love.
5. Oneal Brian Briguela
Onea Brian Briguela, father to gay celebrity Awra Briguela, expressed his pride in a 2021 PEP.ph interview, saying, “Kung san masaya anak ko, doon po ako masaya”. Though Awra’s mother remains out of the spotlight, Oneal’s delight in introducing Awra to friends reflects a caring home that defies traditional expectations, amplifying acceptance through his child’s success.
6. Leandro Muñoz
Leandro Muñoz has supported his gay son Frankie Muñoz since coming out to him at 16. Living in the US, Leandro’s pride shines through family celebrations of Frankie’s milestones, offering a stable, loving backdrop—though his wife’s public comments are less documented. His support counters prejudice, fostering resilience in Frankie. “My point here is kailangan talagang i-support natin what makes our children happy, “ he noted in an interview.
7. K Brosas
Comedienne K Brosas stood by her daughter Crystal when she came out as a lesbian in 2020. K has been publicly expressing her unwavering support for her daughter, creating a home where Crystal could embrace her identity. “I am proud of my daughter. I don’t care kung anong sexual prerefence nya“ she remarked in an interview. As a solo parent in the public eye, K’s presence challenges norms that marginalize lesbian identities.
Redefining Norms Through Love
These celebrity parents—whether as couples like Sharon and Kiko or solo voices like K Brosas—are more than entertainers; they are trailblazers reshaping Filipino culture, challenging outdated belief that queerness is wrong and fostering environments where their children and others in the LGBTQIA+ community can flourish.
Their stories, alongside those of everyday parents, signal a hopeful shift toward inclusivity, proving that pride and acceptance can transform society one family at a time.
