Derrick Monasterio has taken a firm stance against persistent rumors questioning his sexual orientation, unequivocally responding with a resounding “No” to the speculation.
The Kapuso actor seized the opportunity to address the inappropriate use of the term “gay” as an insult, emphasizing the importance of fostering a more open-minded society.
During an episode of ‘Fast Talk with Boy Abunda,’ Monasterio expressed his discomfort with the derogatory use of “gay” as a taunt, asserting that there is no inherent harm in being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. He called for a shift in societal perspectives, rejecting the notion of employing someone’s sexual orientation, body size, or appearance as tools for mockery, highlighting that these are arbitrary standards set by society.
“Mas nabobother ako sa fact na bakit nila ginagamit na pang-asar ang pagiging bakla, wala naman masama doon. Siguro kailangan mas maging open minded pa ang mga tao ngayon, na hindi okay na gagamitin mo pang-asar ang pagiging bakla, pagiging mataba, pagiging pangit, kasi there’s no such things, illusion lang ‘yan ng tao,” he shared.
Meanwhile, Monasterio’s girlfriend and on-screen partner, Elle Villanueva, provided context for the rumors, attributing them to Monasterio’s upbringing in an industry where LGBTQ+ individuals are prevalent. She recounted instances where there were speculations about Monasterio’s sexual orientation, clarifying that he simply grew up in an environment surrounded by diverse individuals.
“Alam mo Tito Boy ang funny nga kasi naririnig ko na po ‘yan, so nung first project pa lang po namin, iniisip ko, ‘Gay ba talaga siya?’ kasi ‘yun ‘yong sinasabi nila. Then I realized lumaki lang siya sa industry na kasama puro gay, so parang nasanay lang siya sa pananalita niya, sa actions niya, na ganon,” she said.
Villanueva shared an anecdote about initially telling her strict mother that Monasterio was gay to secure permission to spend time with him.
Eventually, they disclosed the truth to her mother, who, despite initial surprise, has since embraced their relationship.
Monasterio and Villanueva, who recently collaborated in ‘Return to Paradise,’ are set to reunite in the upcoming GMA Network teleserye ‘Makiling,’ slated to premiere in January.
