In the recent past, there has been an increased number of celebrities who are willing to open up to the world about their journeys from being a cisgender female to identifying themselves as transgender men. International names such as Elliot Page, Aydian Dowling, and Laith Ashley are some of the major celebrities who have embraced this courage and are willing to open up to the world about their journey from identifying themselves as women to transitioning to becoming men.
Their experiences also show that transition is not just a physical process, it's also a profoundly mental and emotional experience. While it involves hormone therapy, surgeries, vocal transformations, and other physical transformations, it equally involves other mental and emotional transformations, like the change of thoughts and feelings, unlearning shame, managing fear, and rebuilding confidence in a world that can also be slow to understand. These men have spoken about therapy, self reflection, and the liberating joy found in finally seeing themselves within the mirror.
This openness also demonstrates, however, that transitioning is not about “becoming someone else,” but about becoming who one has always been.
These celebrities help contribute to the overall discussion about gender diversity and the trans community, especially within the larger LGBTQIA+ movement. They are helping to give representation to trans men everywhere and spreading information and acceptance within the LGBTQAI+ movement and throughout the world.
Check out some local well-known personalities who are proud transgender men:
Aiza Seguerra was a childhood star who rose to fame from the talent competition Little Miss Philippines.
Now known as Ice Seguerra, he is openly a trans man who has undergone hormone replacement therapy. He is now loved as a singer, songwriter, and musical actor.
Charice Pempengco impressed many with her powerful vocals as a child wonder, emerging with third place in the singing contest 'Little Big Star.'
After deciding to transition, Charize became Jake Zyrus. Though he is far from his past self physically, Jake is still hitting high notes with his unique voice.
Nic Salonga Chien is award-winning Broadway and West End musical star Lea Salonga's only child.
Now, he has openly revealed his decision to undergo hormone therapy and chest reconstruction with the support of his parents, Lea Salonga and Robert Chien. He is also making a name for himself in the theater scene and has appeared in the production of 'Into the Woods' among many others.
Hergie Bacyadan was a budding child athlete who was bound to bring fame to the country one day.
She represented the Philippines at the Paris 2024 Olympics for Women's Boxing.
Hergie is also an athlete in Kickboxing, Wushu, and Vovinam.
'StarStruck' alumnus Jesi Corcuera was known for her boyish style that complimented her feminine features.
He surprised everyone after revealing he has chosen to undergo pregnancy through artificial insemination and give birth to his daughter Calia Ellie in 2024 with his partner, Cams.