Drawing inspiration from the iconic musical “Rent,” theater actor Adrian Lindayag bravely revealed his positive HIV status, aiming not only to find personal peace but also to shatter societal stigma and ignite a movement of awareness and acceptance.
In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Adrian advocated for proactive testing, treatment, and destigmatization, stressing the possibility of leading a fulfilling life despite an HIV diagnosis.
“I feel like napakahalaga na malaman ng mga tao na posibleng magkaroon ng normal na buhay kahit meron kang HIV. Yun ang advocacy ko: for people to work and live a full life,” he said.
“But the thing is, you need to get yourself tested. Ang dami kasi natatakot magpatest, na malaman. Pero di mo masosolusyunan kung di ka magpapatest, kung di mo alam, at kung di mo ieducate sarili mo,” he added.
Defying stigma and turning pain into power 💪
WATCH: Adrian Lindayag, who will play Angel in the musical #RentMNL2024 shares why he finally opened up about his HIV positive diagnosis.@ABSCBNNews pic.twitter.com/QluLwZi3Q7
— Anna Cerezo (@annacerezo_) April 3, 2024
Adrian, who got his diagnosis in 2017, admitted to living in shame and fear for years before finding the courage to speak out. “Inspired ako sa story ni Angel. Angel lived a full life and loved fully even with HIV. Yun ang gusto kong isabuhay din,” he said.
“Rent” is an award-winning musical play by Jonathan Larson, which tells the story of a group of young artists struggling to survive and create a life while facing the challenges of HIV.
In 9 Works Theatrical’s revival of the Broadway musical, Adrian plays the role of Angel Dumott Schunard, who is a young drag queen battling HIV.
