Charice Pempengco Comes Out: ‘Yes, I’m A Lesbian’

The singer Charice Pempengco officially came out on June 2 in her homeland of the Philippines. The 21-year-old singer courageously faced a question about her sexuality while on “The Buzz,” a Filipino television show hosted by Boy Abunda, and did not back down from the truth.

“Opo, tomboy po ako,” Charice told Boy — which means, “Yes, I’m a lesbian” — when he asked if the rumors about her being a lesbian were true. It was a huge moment for the singer, who up until that point had remained silent on questions about her sexuality.

“Now I feel free,” Charice said in her native language. “I can go out of the house without fear and certain that I’m not stepping on anybody’s toe.”

Speculation regarding Charice’s sexuality flared up in the past year or so when she began shedding her sweet teen girl style and opting for a more boyish look.

The interview with Boy concluded with Charice in tears, asking for forgiveness from people who, she said, might not be able to understand or accept her for who she is. She added that the change in her style was not some sort of rebellion, but simply an expression of who she really wants to be.

Finally, Charice thanked those who are able to take her for who she is: “To those who can accept me, thank you very much,” she said. “We are all equal, whether you are gay or straight.”

What a positive, heartwarming message from the singer. It must be so difficult for a star of her stature to reveal the truth when it’s possible she could be shunned for it (especially in the Philippines). Charice should be praised for coming out and being proud of who she is. Just by doing so, she is a role model and a sign of support for all of the young people in similar situations to her.