Being a parent, Broadway star Lea Salonga says, is a lesson in unconditional love—no matter what life hands you.

During a Manila press conference for Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular, she opened up about supporting her 19-year-old son Nic Chien, who is transitioning into a trans man, and shared a candid perspective on what it truly means to love a child.

“The one duty that every parent has is to love their child unconditionally, full stop,” she said. “To those who do not have kids, if you think you will not be able to love your child if they come out to you and say, ‘Mom, I am gay. Mom, I’m a lesbian. Mom, I’m bisexual. Mom, I’m trans,’ if under those conditions your love will stop, don’t have children. Just save yourself the drama, save yourself the heartbreak.”

Nic began his transition in his late teens, a journey that came with both challenges and moments of self-discovery. From the very beginning, Lea has been openly supportive, providing guidance, understanding, and a safe space for him to express his identity. She emphasized that being there for her son was never optional—it was simply part of being a parent, helping him navigate the process while prioritizing his mental health and well-being.

Lea reflected on Nic’s journey, noting that professional support has played an important role. Therapy helped him work through dysphoria and strengthened his mental health, giving him the confidence to embrace his identity fully.

Parenting, she explained, is about accepting a child exactly as they are.

“Children are not customizable. It’s like a blind box—you never know what you’re going to get. Chances are, it’s going to be the one you don’t expect, but that’s what you get,” she said.

Her remarks also shed light on the bond she shares with Nic—a relationship rooted in trust, understanding, and steadfast support. It is clear that her role as a parent is guided not by expectation, but by presence, empathy, and unwavering love.

Lea Salonga’s words serve as a reminder that parenting is not about conditions or preferences. It is about showing up for your child, accepting them fully, and supporting them as they navigate their own path. In celebrating Nic’s journey, Lea models a love that is steadfast, honest, and unwavering—a love that embraces the unexpected and champions the freedom to be oneself.