Global pop stars Sophia Laforteza of KATSEYE and Gehlee Dangca of UNIS expressed solidarity with Filipinos who took to the streets on September 21 to protest against corruption.
On her Instagram Story, Laforteza shared that although she could not physically attend the twin rallies at Luneta and the People Power Monument in EDSA, her support remains firm.
“My heart is with my people. We all deserve a future built on truth, integrity, and hope,” she wrote. “Para sa ating bansa, at para sa sambayanang Pilipino, we must always strive for what is just and fair.”
She added that she dreams of a nation free from corruption.
“We dream of a Philippines free from corruption, where accountability and compassion guide us forward. The voice of the Filipino people is powerful and unshakeable. Even if I cannot be present in today’s rallies, I am listening, I am aware, and I stand with you,” Laforteza said.
Meanwhile, Dangca used UNIS’ official Instagram page to post a simple but strong message alongside the protests: “Take a stand.”
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While K-pop idols rarely comment on social issues due to the strict policies of Korean music agencies, the two Filipina idols chose to speak up, earning praise from fans for staying true to their roots.
Laforteza is the leader and vocalist of the six-member girl group KATSEYE, alongside Manon Bannerman, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Rajagopalan, Megan Skiendziel, and Jeong Yoonchae. The group is known for their hits ‘Gnarly,’ ‘Gabriela,’ ‘Touch,’ and ‘Debut.’
Dangca, on the other hand, is the vocalist and visual of the eight-member group UNIS, which also includes Hyeonju (a Filipino-Korean), Nana, Yoona, Kotoko, Yunha, Seowon, and fellow Filipina Elisia.
