Catriona Gray to continue fighting for women's rights despite warning —lawyer

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray will remain “steadfast” in her fight for women's rights, her legal counsel said Friday amid a military general's warning to her and fellow celebrity Liza Soberano.

In a statement on Friday, Atty. Joji Alonso said Gray "will not waiver in continuously championing social causes that uplift women’s lives."

"And while there may be people who will try, she remains steadfast in her stance that no one should be silenced in sharing their personal stories that give strength and support to fellow women who have gone through similar experiences," Alonso added.

In a Facebook post, Lieutenant General Antonio Parlade Jr., chief of the military's Southern Luzon Command, cautioned Soberano against having ties with Gabriela Women's Party, which the military has linked to communist rebels.

Parlade's statement also mentioned Gray, a vocal critic of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which several sectors fear can be used by the government to clamp down on dissent.

Alonso said dragging Gray’s name when all she has endeavored to do is advocate for women’s rights is “completely uncalled for.”

Moreover, Alonso said Gray also extended her gratitude to all those who “share the same stand on gender equality” and who “aim to protect those who are brave enough to speak out on their platforms.” --Ma. Angelica Garcia/KBK, GMA News