I am one with Angelina in her coming out as a transgender woman. Having gone through the same process of transitioning, and coming out certainly isn’t a breeze. I can just imagine the amount of pressure she must be feeling now, considering she’s a known personality. I am very happy for her and proud of her. I’m glad that she is finally free and true to herself and to everyone around her.
Huge admiration also for Joey Mead King for standing beside Angelina all this time, and for loving her unconditionally. More stories like theirs should come out to inspire transgender couples and trans-oriented individuals to be proud of themselves. —JANLEE DUNGCA, PR manager, Castro & Associates Public Relations
When I heard about it I was totally stunned, in a happy way. Three admirable things happened here.
First was Angelina’s decision to be true to herself; second was the way Joey accepted it and is handling it; and third is their enduring relationship. There are many answers everyone would like to know for sure. But here, you just have to take out the what and how, and focus on the why—no other reason but love. May we all learn from these two beautiful people. True love wins in the end. I am truly happy for them. —DAN MEJIA, head of communications, H&M Philippines
Coming out is a brave and courageous act. I salute the love and understanding of Joey Mead, for letting Angelina express her real feelings and be true to what she is now. Acceptance is a big thing, and having two fab and great souls together under one roof proves that #lovewins. —LOURD RAMOS-MOUSSAOUI, creative director, Creations by Lourd Ramos chain of salons; in a same-sex marriage
Sad to say, beauty queens or trophy wives attract closet queens. I am glad I was never a titleholder. One thing I can say about Angelina is that she is indeed pretty. —LOUIE CRUZ
When a man transitions into a woman, it is shocking news to many. The first thing I see clearly is the ignorance of society about the issue. This is why the coming out of Angelina King, which ignited strong discussions in private and public conversations, is very helpful in allowing the public to know and understand the process of change, the science of sexual orientation and gender identification, and the human story of courage and love.
There is so much more about sexuality than just a binary concept, that it’s just about being a man or a woman. The complexity of sexuality is beyond labels.
As an LGBT rights advocate, I believe gender equality can only be achieved if we start to think beyond labels and respect each other’s choices in living our truth. —MELO ESGUERRA, journalist and LGBT rights advocate
This was a brave decision by Angie, and also Joey. While this coming-out is personal to them and their loved ones, it still sends a strong message that love and respect know no boundaries. —RICHARD ARBOLEDA, managing director, EON Public Relations
This is what I wrote on Joey Mead’s FB wall: To Angelina and Joey Mead King, I am in awe of you two, and I’m so happy for both of you and all the people you will touch by being true to yourselves. The challenge both of you have faced is so daunting, and I look forward to how much further this brings us all to a world where we live without judging other people for who they are and what they become. You are needed inspirations to so many now. All the best for the future. —JON-JON RUFINO, businessman