As an ally of the LGBTQ+ community and a judge for the preliminary competition of SLAY Model Search Asia, Karylle is optimistic that the world is slowly changing towards championing inclusivity. 

“I think it’s groundbreaking,” said Karylle. 

Asia is known for its more conservative leanings as compared to its Western counterparts, with the Philippines particularly known for being so. 

“The fact that it is happening in the Philippines is a big deal,” agreed Karylle. “I’m very happy to live in a time when many doors are being opened for people. People are learning to love people.”

Karylle was one of the judges for the preliminary competition for SLAY Model Search Asia held at Revel at the Palace, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig last April 22, 2023. The models sashayed around the club wearing creations by Paola Caceres and Nat Manilag. 

It is the first-ever model search by SLAY Model Management, the world's first trans exclusive modeling agency based in Los Angeles, California, USA. It also coincided with the launch of its Asian operations which will have its base in Manila. 

READ: First trans exclusive model agency in Asia opens in Manila

“Look how beautiful they are,” she noted, as she gestured towards the 24 models. “Ngayong nawala na ‘yung tension, they are able to speak their minds.”

Karylle was able to chat with some of the models beforehand and shared that behind the smiles and looks of confidence were actually stories of survival. 

“We were able to hang out and have merienda after,” she shared, referring to some of the Filipina models who visited It’s Showtime. 

She found out that a lot of the women were first-timers, and were understandably nervous about the entire journey. More than that, most of them had to deal with a lot of push back and obstacles simply because they were trans women. 

“Yung iba nakikita ko na meron silang struggle, tapos shina-share nila na marami pala silang pinagdaanan,” she said. “That made me understand kung bakit grabe nalang ‘yung kaba nila. This is a big start for all of them.” 

Karylle also took note of the rigorous training and mentoring that the girls had to go through as they prepared for the competition. Prior to that, they also went through thorough screening by SLAY Model Management.

“Sa dami-dami ng applications na nakuha ng SLAY, salang-sala na rin ito,” she explained. “Handang-handa na sila.”

While trans people are ready for the world, is the world ready for them? Karylle believes it is, or at the very least, it is starting to be. 

“I think now that the world is starting to understand trans and trans visibility. Nagiging mas madali maintindihan,” said Karylle. “I’m happy to be living in time na, hindi man handang-handa lahat, handa na.”

With all the talk about being sensitive to preferred pronouns, inclusivity and diversity, there are some who find the adjustments quite a challenge. 

“I hear a lot of people saying things like ‘ang dami namang kailangang maintindihan o aralin,’” shared Karylle. 

While this is true, she doesn’t see any reason people will not be able to cope and understand the changing world. Respect and love are both universal, after all. 

“Why not? Matalino naman tayo. So why not give ourselves that challenge to learn something new,” said Karylle. “Like loving people as people. Ganoon lang naman kasimple ‘yun.”

Nevertheless, Karylle also said she knows that true understanding may take time. 

“For those who don’t understand yet, let’s also give them some of our patience,” urged Karylle. “Maybe with some love, maiintindihan din nila ang mga bagay-bagay sa mundo.”

She suggested going about it gently, instead of antagonizing them or forcing acceptance. 

“Para sa mga hindi pa handa, bigyan din natin sila ng tamang pagkakataon. Bigyan natin sila ng konting ayuda, lambing, para maintindihan nila. Huwag natin silang galitin,” she advised. “Let’s be patient with them. I know they will come around soon.” 

Karylle remains positive that the time of real inclusivity is not that far away. She credits opportunities such as SLAY Model Search Asia as instrumental in paving the way for this. 

“Seeing these women enjoying themselves and hear their hearts will help. It will make it easier for the world to see,” said Karylle. “I’m optimistic! Let’s hope for the best.”