MANILA, Philippines – After receiving backlash from some members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veteran fashion designer Renee Salud is speaking out — with no regrets, and still a touch of love.
In a recent interview with Bandera, Renee addressed the controversy surrounding his joint statement with close friend Mother Ricky Reyes, where they expressed their personal opposition to same-sex marriage during an appearance on Toni Gonzaga’s talk show.
Their comments sparked outrage online, with many accusing the two of being outdated and out of touch.
“Hindi ko inaasahan ‘yung reactions — akala ko maiintindihan ako”
“Maraming nagalit, pero marami rin ang natuwa. E ano pa magagawa ko? Yun talaga ang sagot ko,” said Renee.
“I’m a real person. Kung ano yung naiisip ko, yun ang sasabihin ko. Akala ko they will understand and respect my opinion,” he added, saying he didn’t expect the strong negative response.
According to him, the generational divide within the LGBTQ+ community may be part of the reason for the clash.
“Ako old school, sila mga woke. E hindi tayo pare-pareho, kaya sorry na lang. Kung magalit kayo sa akin, okay lang yun. Mas maganda nga magalit kayo, kasi nag-trending! But still, I love you!” he quipped.
Still Shows Support, Despite Differences
Despite standing by his personal views, Renee made it clear he doesn’t condemn same-sex couples — in fact, he’s willing to dress them up for their big day.
“Kung gusto n’yong magpakasal kayo, go ahead. Igagawa ko pa kayo ng wedding gown,” he said with a smile.
When asked about his stance on the SOGIE bill, Renee admitted he isn’t fully updated on the issue, but shared his perspective as someone who lived through a more difficult time for gay Filipinos.
“’70s na bakla ako. Ang hirap-hirap noon. Lahat ng lait, inaabot namin. Pero ngayon, napakaswerte ninyo. Tanggap na ng tao. Hindi na kayo nahihirapan tulad ng naranasan namin noon,” he said.
“Kanya-kanyang pananaw ‘yan”
To those still fuming over his statements, Renee had this to say:
“Mga ineng, mga tutoy, hindi porke gusto mo, ay gusto rin ng iba. Kanya-kanya tayo. We were born differently. That’s the katotohanan.”
And as for whether same-sex marriage or the SOGIE bill pushes through in the future?
“Kung umangat, so be it. Kung hindi, okay lang din. Walang samaan ng loob.”
Old school or not, Renee Salud isn’t shying away from the conversation — and he’s doing it his way, with sequins, sass, and sincerity.
