“Fear stops people from saving their lives.” These were the words Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach quipped when asked about an aspect of her advocacy work with LoveYourself she wants to highlight. Even in the Philippines, she declared that it isn’t about awareness anymore, it’s about “taking that step to treatment.”
Raising both the Philippine and the rainbow flag even higher, the LoveYourself ambassador proves that she is more than just a beauty queen with a cause—she is a passionate advocate who embodies the true essence of a beauty queen.
This commitment was evident when Kumu partnered with LoveYourself, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting the LGBTQ+ community, for a special livestream event in support of Pride Month and the causes of the organization.
Amidst attending global fashion shows and events, including a presence in Paris during the Kumu stream with @prettyashii, Pia always makes time to support her advocacy work. She told Kumu, “I crave for giving value and my time to something makabuluhan” in the midst of her glamorous life.
During the fundraising event, Dr. Vinn, the founder of the organization, also talked about all the programs under LoveYourself, including free testing, free treatment, and their more than 70 centers around the country.
“Para sa akin, alam naman ng mga tao na may testing na libre, treatment na libre,” Pia added, highlighting that many people delay seeking help due to fear and shame, which only exacerbates their health issues.“Pinakamalaking problema is taking that step to treatment. Alam nila pero takot na takot silang magpatingin at bumalik sa doctor. Nalaman naman nila nang maaga pero hindi sila nagpapa-treatment.”
The host and actress emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma associated with testing and treatment. She connected this with mental health struggles, stating, “It’s not a one size fits all solution. Reach out. Somebody is feeling the same way as you are right now.”
Since her stint in Binibining Pilipinas 2015, Pia Wurtzbach has been an active advocate for HIV awareness both locally and internationally. She often reflects on whether her efforts truly encourage people. And sure she did. Sharing an unforgettable moment, Pia reminisced, “Isang beses sa US, may lumapit sa ‘kin at bumulong, ‘You inspired me to get treatment.’”
Words like these remind her of the profound impact her advocacy work has, motivating her to continue her mission with even greater passion and dedication to the world—the universe rather.
With over three million diamonds and more than 11,000 viewers on the Kumu stream on June 27, the funds raised, Php. 105,000, through virtual gifts will directly benefit LoveYourself’s various programs. These programs include services such as HIV testing and counseling, transgender health services, and mental health support, all of which play a vital role in the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.
Pia encouraged others to support LoveYourself in various ways even in the comfort of their homes by resharing and restorying their engagements in social media or taking a step further by becoming a volunteer, and forming friendships with people who have the same mindset and advocacy, as she stated, “We need everybody on our side.”
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