With family, misunderstandings and disagreements are just part of the deal. But when conflicts are about sensitive matters such as one’s sexuality, gender expression, and career, they become tough to navigate. Tensions may also run high when these conflicts clash with traditional values.

Last September 11, former SexBomb Girls member Izzy Trazona-Aragon went viral after sharing a post dedicated to her son Andrei, a message that’s hauntingly familiar to many LGBTQ+ individuals.

“I love you so much to not support you on things that will harm you”

In a lengthy Facebook post, Izzy opened up about her current relationship with her son Andrei. 

“I miss you, Drei. You’re always in my prayers. Everyday. I love you so much. And that will never change,” Izzy’s post reads.

She said it’s normal for parents and their kids to have disagreements, as both sides have their reasons for what they’re standing up for. However, Izzy emphasized if her children go against her faith, she’ll express her disagreement and guide them toward Jesus Christ. 

“Andrei, anak, I love you so much to not support you on things that will harm you. I am always here for you. Your mama. Mahal na mahal kita.”

Andrei’s passion for drag

(Editor’s note: Andrei Trazona’s pronouns are he/she. 8List has used masculine pronouns for clarity.)

Izzy’s statement comes over two months after Andrei revealed his drag persona “Sofia”. Back on July 6, 2023, Andrei revealed that he would be participating in the drag competition, The Bunganga Battle Royale.

“Many people underestimated me when I started doing drag since I am from the Social Media Industry but I am here to prove that I’m not just a Content Creator but a Drag Queen,” he wrote.

Izzy’s statement received a mix of reactions

As of writing, Izzy’s post has received thousands of reactions and comments from netizens. Some praised the former SexBomb Girls member for standing up for her beliefs.

“Alam ko na mahirap ang pinagdadaanan n’yo mag-ina, but I know God will never leave you in this battle,” one netizen commented.

Others have referred to Izzy’s actions as a display of “true mother’s love” and encouraged her to ignore what others might say.

However, many people expressed their disappointment towards her. They argued that as Andrei’s mother, she should love him unconditionally and believed that family matters like these should be handled privately.

“If that’s what makes your son happy, then why not support him all the way? Andrei is already an adult — for sure he knows his boundaries,” another netizen said.

Andrei tells his side of the story

It seems Andrei caught wind of his mother’s Facebook post and shared his side.

“I lied in an interview that she supports [me] for what I am and for what I do just to protect her from any backlash,” he wrote.

Andrei revealed he’s been independently supporting himself for years now and living responsibly. 

“I’m tired of this conversation about being gay and doing drag,” he wrote.

Despite his love for his mother, Andrei also said the current situation isn’t good for him, and he hopes Izzy will come to understand him.

“I miss you, but you’re not bringing me any comfort and compassion I deserve.”

People shower Andrei with love and support

Sadly, countless LGBTQ+ individuals struggle to find love and acceptance within their families, with many people empathizing with Andrei’s situation, like former Drag Race Philippines contestants Eva Le Queen and Matilduh.

“You’re a great performer, and I hope everything will get better. Maraming nagmamahal sa’yo!” Matilduh wrote.

Netizens also relate to how Andrei tried to protect his mother from criticism and hope he finds people who will accept him for who he is.

Some netizens also wish to find the courage to let go of people who don’t love or accept them, even if those individuals are very close to them. 

“Minsan talaga pamilya mo kalaban mo. Very relatable. Sana gaya mo, magkaroon din ako ng lakas ng loob na kumalas kahit gaano pa kahigpit ang kapit nila sa’kin.”

A hard pill to swallow: blood isn’t always thicker than water. Love isn’t defined by genetics but by trust, support, and compassion. In a world where acceptance is a rare gem, one can only hope that unconditional love can conquer even the most challenging circumstances.

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