Raymond Gutierrez amid ‘we knew’ comments after coming out publicly: ‘You never knew my story and my struggles’

Raymond Gutierrez took to Instagram to answer "we knew" comments in the heels of his coming out.

In a lengthy post Monday, the Filipino TV host and columnist clarified that he never lied about his true identity. He just never spoke about it publicly. 

“I was never not out. I never denied who I was. I just never shared my story publicly until now,” he began.

Mond also dedicated a short message to those who have been showering the news with “we knew” comments: “You never knew my story and my struggles.”

According to Raymond, being part of the LGBT community did not at one bit lessen what he can offer.

“Sexuality shouldn’t define who you are and it should never hinder your greatness,” he wrote.

“For me personally, being in touch with my masculine and feminine side allowed me to push boundaries creatively and create magic with the projects I do,” he added.

In his post, Raymond reiterated what he told Mega Magazine about having a hard time figuring out who he truly was.

“I went through a long period of time hating myself because society taught me that being different wasn’t the right path, especially for someone growing up in the public eye,” he added.

Raymond also said he “went through a dark phase of self-destruction” where unhealthy habits of his served as an “escape” from facing reality.

He was afraid to bring “shame” to his family and how others would treat him if they knew. With this, he is thankful to those who never left his side and wants to be an inspiration.

“If there’s one thing I learned this past year and a half is that life is fleeting,” Raymond wrote.

“I want to encourage those who feel alone that it’s never too late to love yourself, acknowledge those feelings and face your fears - because it feels damn good to be on the other side,” he added.

For those who have been having a hard time, Raymond has this to say: “I went through the same things. You will be loved, your feelings are valid, and those who truly love you will stick around.”

In the comments section, friends of his including Liz Uy, Sarah Lahbati, Anne Curtis, Isabelle Daza, Georgina Wilson, and Jasmine Curtis-Smith showered him with love and support.

Raymond publicly came out as a member of the LGBTQ community on Sunday. — Franchesca Viernes/LA, GMA News