Michelle Dee was asked about the controversial statement by Brandon Espiritu
Kapuso actress Michelle Dee shared her thoughts on the “halfie” issue from the now-deleted comment made by Mister Supranational 2024 Philippines Brandon Espiritu.
Brandon received bashing online for saying that the Philippines wouldn’t have the chance on the international stage if not because of halfies like him. This did not sit well with many netizens, especially those who are pageant fans.
In a recent interview on the Kapuso afternoon talk show Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Michelle was asked about this issue. The Kapuso actress was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2023 and placed in the Top 10 in the international competition.
The term “halfie” is informally used to describe anyone of mixed-race ancestry. “Tell that to all the front runners for the Philippines. This country wouldn’t have a chance on the national stage without us halflies,” Brandon said in a now-deleted comment.
Michelle did not agree with this. She pointed out that it is the Filipino people who have shown their support and have contributed to the success of someone in the world of pageantry.
“I really think that we’ve gotten so much success on the international stage by being Filipino. We should always recognize that it’s not just about who we are, it’s also the people that are carrying us. I always say na I wouldn’t be where I am if not for the support of the Filipino people,” Michelle said.
She also pointed out that there had been international acts that are very proud of their Filipino roots and are not ashamed of where they came from.
“Whether I’m full-blooded, whether there are halfies–– what should be true is your pride for the country that you’re representing… That’s not just limited to pageantry, that’s limited across the board–– whether it’s Olympics, whether that’s in music. Some of the most celebrated halfies abroad still feel the support of being Filipino,” the Kapuso star said.
Michelle Dee said that being halfie does not always guarantee a successful outcome in a pageant. For him, it is more about being proud of what one is representing.
As of this writing, Brandon’s Instagram page is no longer available following his controversial statement.