Kim Chiu was in tears after learning she was included in Forbes Asia’s list of most influential stars on social media across Asia-Pacific for her Bawal Lumabas gaffe-turned-campaign.
Released on Tuesday, the unranked, inaugural list called Asia’s 100 Digital Stars highlighted “celebrities who, despite cancelled physical events and activities, managed to remain active and relevant, largely by using social media to interact with their fans, raise awareness and inspire optimism” amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kim was recognized for turning her viral but widely-bashed Bawal Lumabas statement against ABS-CBN’s shutdown back in May into a hit single and merchandise to raise funds for COVID-19 relief efforts. (READ: Kim Chiu donates food packs, P300K from Bawal Lumabas merchandise profits – Latest Chika)
“TOTOO NGA!!!!!!!!!!!!!? OMG!!! OMG!!!!!!! No words!!!! I am a part of ASIA PACIFIC’s MOST INFLUENTIAL CELEBRITIES ON SOCIAL MEDIA!❤️?No words!!! FORBES!!! Sorry capital letters lahat!!! Para intense yun yung nararamdaman ko now!!! LIKE WOW!!!!! Ang #bawallumabas umabot ng FORBES.Com,” exclaimed Kim an Instagram post on Tuesday.
An emotional Kim went on to express her gratitude for the recognition.
“I’m literally crying while typing all these. Grabe po!??? I am just thankful for everything God has been giving me. My faith has been tested this year but I never gave up on trusting his will, ALL IN HIS GLORY! ALL FOR YOU FATHER GOD!?? THANK YOU @forbes for this recognition❤️ there is truly LOVE AND LIGHT!✨✨✨✨✨??? MARAMING SALAMAT PO!❤️ WOW!!!!!”.
Other local celebrities who made it to the list are Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Kathryn Bernardo, Marian Rivera, Vice Ganda, and Sarah Geronimo.
