Lea Salonga Calls Out Body Shamers, Challenges Double Standards Against Women

Lea Salonga has spoken out against body shaming, questioning why women are often judged harshly for their weight and appearance.

The award-winning Filipino performer, known for Miss Saigon and as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan, highlighted health and biological factors that can affect women's bodies.

“Women have PCOS, they have their periods,” Salonga said, before asking male critics, “As a man – why are you fat?”

Her comments drew attention online, particularly among Filipino netizens, and sparked discussion about the different standards applied to men and women.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause hormonal changes and may make weight management difficult for some women. Menstruation can also bring temporary changes such as bloating and changes in appetite. However, these factors vary from person to person, and body size alone cannot indicate a medical condition.

Salonga's remarks have renewed debate over how celebrities and women in general are treated when their appearance changes. Supporters say her message is about showing empathy and avoiding assumptions about other people's health.

The discussion also highlights the difference between expressing genuine concern for someone's health and making insulting or unwanted comments about their body.

For Salonga, the broader message is simple: people should think twice before judging someone based on their appearance and should treat others with greater respect.