The LGBT community was again given the spotlight in the recent episode of Love Bites titled ”Hearts of Pride” starring Kristof Garcia and Angela Trajano.
“Hearts of Pride” is told from the perspective of a straight guy who fell in love with a transgender woman, Chichay. Angela was surprised to learn that the episode narrates her friend’s real-life love story. It was an advantage as she was able to ask questions to the real Chichay. The transgender actress was admittedly challenged by her role but she pulled it off, thanks to director Dado Lumibao and the production team, who patiently guided her. She said Direk Dado made acting less daunting for her, adding that Kristof helped bring out her best.
Angela reached out to Kristof before the filming to break the ice between them. She did her assignment by researching him as well. The artists found it easy to become friends, and their newfound friendship helped showcase good on-screen chemistry.
Angela recalled their first meeting, saying Kristof was asleep when she hopped in the service van, thus finding him mysterious. When he woke up, she asked questions right away and realized he is a real-life rom-com leading man that’s sweet and funny. As for Kristof, he found her intimidatingly beautiful and he didn’t know how to interact at first. He credits Angela for erasing the awkwardness between them.
The “Hearts of Pride” stars are aware of the stigma against LGBT relationships such as in the case of a straight guy falling for a transgender woman. They wish that giving queer stories a space in mainstream media inspires the public to be more accepting of the LGBT community.
Kristof urged LGBT members to just be themselves and believe that they are worthy of happiness and love. “Basta ‘pag nagmahal ka, huwag mong iisipin ang sasabihin ng ibang tao. Ang importante masaya kayo. Mag-focus lang kayo kung saan kayo mag-go-grow as partners. Enjoy-in n’yo yan. Huwag n’yong isipin ‘yung sasabihin ng ibang tao kasi wala naman silang magagawa para sa inyo, eh. Maging matapang lang,” he added that this piece of advice applies to all gender.
Angela herself has experienced getting judged because of her gender, “Kahit hindi man nila sabihin verbally, sa mga tingin at kilos pa lang nila, alam mo nang you are not supported.” She asked fellow LGBT members to just focus on the people who matter, those who are happy for your happiness.
In case you missed it, Angela’s brother Genesis Redido also graced Kapamilya Chat last October 7 to promote his Love Bites episode “He Must Choose,” which is also an LGBT story. Angela appreciates Genesis accepting BL roles to support her and the entire LGBT community.
Get your daily dose of ‘kilig’ and happy vibes from Kristof and Angela in Love Bites: “Hearts of Pride,” now streaming via ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube Channel.