“Pinoy Big Brother” (PBB) has long been more than just a reality show—it’s a cultural touchstone that offers housemates a stage to reveal their authentic selves to the world.
Over its nearly two-decade run, PBB has become a powerful platform for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, with several housemates courageously sharing their identities and stories, resonating with audiences and inspiring countless others. Notably, PBB has been a venue for various openly LGBTQIA+ personalities (prior to joining the show), to showcase their true selves to the national audience.
As of April 3, 2025, the latest season, “Celebrity Collab Edition,” continues this legacy with Klarisse de Guzman’s heartfelt revelation, joining a distinguished list of trailblazers from past editions.
Klarisse de Guzman, the soulful Kapamilya singer dubbed the “Philippines’ Soul Diva,” made headlines during an emotional episode aired on April 2, 2025. In the “PBB Collab Sharing” segment, the 33-year-old proudly declared, “I am not straight. I am bi,” revealing her four-year relationship with her partner.
Her announcement, met with support from housemates and fans alike, underscores PBB’s enduring role in fostering acceptance and visibility. Social media erupted with praise, with the official PBB account posting, “We are so proud of you, ate Klang! Napaka tapang mo!”—a sentiment echoed by viewers celebrating her bravery.
Klarisse joins a lineage of PBB housemates who have used the show’s platform to introduce their true selves. In “Celebrity Edition 1” (2006), Rustom Padilla entered the house as a well-known action star but left an indelible mark when he came out as a gay man, later transitioning to the transwoman, BB Gandanghari.
His revelation was a groundbreaking moment for Philippine television, challenging norms and opening conversations about gender identity.
Fast forward to “All In” (2014), where Fifth Solomon captivated audiences with his charm and talent. During his time in the house, he openly identified as bisexual, sharing his story with a natural ease that endeared him to fans and highlighted the diversity within the PBB community. His openness paved the way for greater representation in the show’s history.
In “Lucky 7” (2016), two housemates further enriched this narrative. Jesi Corcuera bravely admitted to his peers that he is a transman, marking a significant moment of vulnerability and strength. His disclosure, met with acceptance from his fellow housemates, showcased PBB’s ability to foster understanding among its diverse cast.
That same season, Jerome Alacre, known for his quiet resilience, also shared his identity as a gay man, adding to the season’s tapestry of authenticity.
More recently, in “Gen 11” (2024), Brx Ruiz brought their own unique energy to the house. Identifying as non-binary, Brx’s presence challenged traditional gender norms and offered viewers a fresh perspective on identity, further cementing PBB’s reputation as a space where individuality thrives.
From Rustom’s pioneering courage to Klarisse’s recent affirmation, PBB has consistently provided a platform for housemates to shed societal masks and embrace their truths. Whether through tearful confessions or casual revelations, these moments have transcended entertainment, sparking dialogue and fostering empathy across the Philippines.
As the “Celebrity Collab Edition” unfolds, Klarisse de Guzman’s story reaffirms that PBB remains a beacon for those seeking to live authentically, proving that inside Kuya’s house, every identity finds a voice.
