Klea Pineda recently celebrated her 24th birthday last March 19, 2023, and it was made extra special as it was also the day she publicly came out as queer to the public. The Ultimate Female Survivor of Starstruck 6 accompanied the photos of her clad in a white crop top and light-wash denim jeans with a lengthy caption that detailed her thoughts and feelings about finally admitting to the world her sexuality.
"My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self," she wrote. "Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community."
She went on to explain how she knows not everyone might approve of her decision to come out, but over the years, she has learned to prioritize the things she knows will give her joy.
The 24-year-old star also hopes to inspire others who may still be in the closet to be their most authentic self, even if it's difficult at first. "Alam ko mahirap at nakakatakot, but please know na walang mali sa atin at walang kulang sa atin kahit pa magpakatotoo tayo. Marami man ang manghusga, mas marami pa rin ang tatanggap at magmamahal sa’yo nang buong-buo. Just be the person that your younger self would be proud of!"
She also stressed that her sexuality is just one aspect of her life, and it won't stop her from pursuing her other passions. "It won’t stop me from chasing after my dreams. I am still the same Klea that you loved and supported throughout the years. The only difference now is I can proudly say that I’m gay!" she said.
In an exclusive interview with GMA News, Klea explained that she always felt the need to come out, but was afraid to do so due to the repercussions it might have on her life and career. "Yung takot, nandiyan siya parati. Pero mas nangingibabaw yung excitement. For the longest time, nag-be-base ako sa tao kung sino talaga ako... Pero ito yung masasabi ko na sakin. Ako ito, and I'm proud na ito ako," she explained.
Klea also got the chance to introduce her girlfriend, Katrice Kierulf, to the world via Boy Abunda's talk show. Katrice, a rider and model, also had the sweetest reaction to her girlfriend coming out. "Naiiyak ako, Tito Boy, kasi finally she made it. She’s speaking her truth already to everyone and I’m so proud of her. Very heartfelt talaga ang desisyon niya na ito and I’m very supportive of her talaga," she gushed.
"Thank you for everything, honey... thank you and I love you so much," Klea replied before enveloping her girlfriend in a hug. Aww!
Belated happy birthday, Klea, and we're so happy for you!
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