Charice: Just call me Kuya
Enough of Charice after her long-delayed albeit anti-climactic admission that she’s, well, you-know-what?
“So who cares if she’s gay?” somebody I know said in disgust. “Will it help ease the tension between the Philippines and Taiwan, reverse the threat of global warming, lower the prices of tuition and prime commodities and hasten up the resolution of election protests?” I was speechless! Charice was on the phone the other day and as her ninong, I was relieved to hear her voice so calm, so cool and so comfortable in what could only be described as her “new” life.
She cooed, “Kumusta ka, Ninong?” I said, “Okay lang!” Asked how I should address her now — kuya or pare? — Charice laughed and said, “Kuya na lang!” Okay, fine, Kuya Charice. Ingat ka! But before we sweep the Charice nonissue into the dustbin of showbiz herstory, let’s listen to what some special people say about the whole thing:
• John ‘Sweet’ Lapus: Finally! Welcome, Charice, to the LGBT community. I’m so proud of your coming out. Hope you’ll be an inspiration to others who are in the closet — dark and alone. Sana lalaking singer naman ang mag- out para masaya! Freedom!
• Jon Santos (who texted from California): I always admire anyone who strives to know him/herself, and commits to being true to himself or herself. I became an even bigger fan.
• Mr. Fu: Her “coming out” is admirable and her “coming in” as an excellent artist is a challenge. Bring it on, Charice! Makapagout na nga rin ako. May ganoon?!
• Rene Salud:
Dapat noon pa! Actually, I did several gowns for her when she did some international concerts and I could sense her being a lesbian! I thought that she would be accepted for what she is, like Aiza. She will be more comfortable with the permissive world!!! The more her talent will shine!!!
• Maritess Gutierrez: She’s