Chie Filomeno addressed what she called painful and baseless stories questioning her “name and reputation,” saying this would be the last time she spoke on the matter.
In a statement emailed to The Philippine STAR on Friday afternoon, she began, “Since I started in the entertainment industry, I’ve always known that being in the public eye means being open to judgment — both online and offline.
“Pero gaya ng lagi kong sinasabi: I am a public figure, but I am not public property. I want to repeat that, kasi lately, my name and reputation have been questioned again because of recent issues.
“Right now, my only goal is to set things straight. This will be the last time na magsasalita ako about this issue, and I’m choosing to respond with calm, care, and clarity,” she continued. “So, let me clear the air, again.”
The Can’t Buy Me Love star looked back on her showbiz beginnings, stating that she started out as a cosplayer and commercial model at the age of 11 to help provide for her family, and became the family breadwinner by the time she turned 15.
“My story began in our humble home in Kamuning. I started cosplaying and doing commercial modeling at the age of 11 to earn my own allowance, and eventually found my way into acting, performing, and becoming a social media influencer. By the time I was 15, I had officially become the sole provider for my family,” she said.
“These careers allowed me to express my creativity while supporting the people I love. I’ve been our family’s breadwinner ever since — and that’s something I’ve always taken to heart. Kaya masakit para sa akin at sa pamilya ko kapag may mga kwentong walang basehan na pinapalabas na kung anu-ano. Wala po itong katotohanan. Marangal po akong nagtatrabaho para sa mga minamahal ko.”
While she didn’t specify the things she has been accused of, Chie described these accusations have been painful, given how hard she has worked to make her family proud.
“It’s unfair for me to be judged like this — especially as someone who has worked hard just to make her loved ones proud. Anyone who has carried that kind of responsibility will understand how heavy it can be.”
Despite the recent issues, she expressed gratitude to the people and brands who have continued to support and stand by her.
“I’ll always be grateful to all the brands, designers, partners, and supporters who continue to trust and believe in me. Every collaboration and opportunity reminds me that hard work and integrity will always matter more than noise. These are values I’ll always hold on to.”
Addressing her personal life, Chie acknowledged in her statement that while her previous relationship was public, she said she now values privacy and peace.
“And when it comes to my personal life — my previous relationship was public, and I’m thankful for that chapter. But now, I’ve found new connections and safe spaces that I want to protect from unnecessary attention. This time, I’m choosing peace and privacy. And when the time comes, you’ll see what love looks like when it’s nurtured quietly,” she said.
Chie concluded her statement expressing her desire for closure on the issues.
“For now, this is what I can share — my truth, my story, my peace. I hope I won’t have to explain myself again.”
