Kapuso weatherman and host Anjo Pertierra has spoken out about the homophobia faced by LGBTQIA+ athletes, particularly volleyball players, in the Philippines.
During his guest appearance on GTV’s ‘Lutong Bahay’ on January 20, Anjo shared his experiences as a former basketball and volleyball player, shedding light on the prejudice still prevalent in sports culture.
Anjo revealed that he was often stereotyped as gay simply for playing volleyball, a sport sometimes perceived in the country as being linked to a specific gender preference.
“Alam naman nating sa Pilipinas, basketball ang number one sport. So dumating sa time na na-se-stereotype ako na bading kasi raw nagvo-volleyball,” he said.
Although Anjo was unfazed by the remarks due to his confidence in his identity, he expressed concern for his LGBTQIA+ teammates, who were frequently subjected to discrimination.
“Noong college kasi ako, ako ‘yung captain ball ng team. So, mayroon akong mga teammates na [from the] LGBT community. Dumarating sa point na parang inaatake ‘yung gender nila at pati sport namin,” Anjo explained. “Kapag volleyball player ka, automatic bading ka na.”
Anjo underscored that there is nothing wrong with being gay or having a different gender identity. However, he criticized the mindset of those who look down on LGBTQIA+ athletes, calling it a sign of insecurity.
“Walang mali sa pagiging bading [at] kung ano man ‘yung gender preference mo. Pero ang dating kasi sa kanila, nilu-look down nila ‘yung teammate ko,” he said.
To conclude, Anjo sent a powerful message encouraging people to break free from outdated stereotypes and embrace inclusivity in sports and everyday life.
“Guys, 2025 na. Gumising na tayo. ‘Wag na tayong gender-based sa mga ginagawa,” Anjo urged.
Currently a weather presenter on GMA Network’s ‘Unang Hirit,’ Anjo Pertierra continues to use his platform to promote equality and raise awareness of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in the sporting world.
