Klea Pineda introduces girlfriend after proudly coming out as queer

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 21) — Kapuso actress Klea Pineda proudly introduced her non-showbiz girlfriend to the public after boldly coming out as lesbian on her 24th birthday.

The Ultimate Female Survivor of "Starstruck Season 6" confirmed during her guesting on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda" on Monday that she is in a romantic relationship.

She said her partner has been supportive of her decision to disclose her gender identity.

"Inask ko siya kung okay lang sa kanya kasi once nag-out ako, mag-a-out na din siya sa public," Pineda said in her interview with Abunda. "So inask ko siya kung okay lang ‘yun. Ang sagot niya sa akin, Tito Boy, 'Hinihintay lang naman kita.'"

[Translation: I asked her if it's okay because once I come out of the closet, she will also be outed in public. She told me she was just waiting for me.]

She then introduced her girlfriend as Katrice Kierulf.

Kierulf, who was in the studio during the interview, turned emotional while describing her girlfriend's journey. Pineda listened intently with heart eyes.

"Naiiyak ko. Finally she made it." Kierulf said. "She's speaking her truth already to everyone, and I'm so proud of her, so very heartfelt talaga 'yung desisyon niya na 'to."

[Translation: I am turning emotional. Her decision was very heartfelt.]

Pineda revealed that she is a part of the LGBTQIA+ community on her birthday on March 19.

On Instagram, she said her birthday is extra special this year because she finally mustered the courage to show the world her authentic self.

But she also assured her fans that she remains to be the same actress they have supported since winning the reality talent competition show in 2015.

"The only difference now is I can proudly say that I'm gay!" Pineda wrote. "From now on, I want to live my life fearlessly."

The actress known for her roles in "Encantadia," "Ika-5 Utos," and "Magkaagaw" also shared that her parents are supportive of her decision.