ICYDK, March is widely recognized as Women's Month, so now of all times women should be supporting women. Author, Miss Universe 2015 titleholder, and style icon Pia Wurtzbach has clearly had enough of the online hate, and recently spoke up to clear the air once and for all.
READ: Pia Wurtzbach's Speaks Up About Netizens "Pitting Women Against Each Other"
On Saturday, March 2, Pia posted an Instagram reel that captured the highlights of her trip so far, including her attendance at Dior's Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show.
"Turn up the lights in the City of Light…we made it to Paris! Here to keep up with the momentum and appreciate the stunning clothes & creative minds behind each brand. [heart emoji] I’m off to change into my next outfit in the van no less LOL. That’s #ParisFashionWeek, baby. We make do and Make. It. Happen. Bisous! [kiss emoji]," she captioned her post.
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Pia's fans were quick to show her love and support in the comments section. Magic Liwanag, a professional photographer and longtime collaborator of Pia's, also chimed in. "Still bringing the same big and positive energy (since 2015) all throughout this FW season. This is why it will always be a pleasure working with you, @piawurtzbach! Keep going!" In response to a fan's praise, he also wrote: "she brings out the best with my work also. teamwork makes the dream work!"
Earl Semitara, co-creative director of Mark Bumgarner, watched the IG reel almost ten times! "You are soo endearing and relatable. Never scared to laugh at and make fun of yourself," he described Pia.
However, not everything was positive. Several netizens penned hate comments under the post, including copycat accusations or insinuations that she wasn't invited to certain shows.
Clearly, Pia has had enough of the online virtriol, and took the time to write a lengthy response. "Hey everyone! I’ve been seeing all these nasty comments, below the belt name calling, and accusations aimed towards others. I think we all need to be reminded that this bickering, pitting women against each other, and pointing fingers isn’t right," she wrote.
"Please stop fighting. I want to ask everyone, my supporters especially, as I always did even years ago during my Binibini or Miss Universe days, please do not pull other people down, lest to defend me. That is not what I want. And that’s not what I stand for," Pia continued.
"Let’s respect each other and the work being put in by everyone — and not ruin it just because people online can’t get along. There is so much room in this world for everyone to shine."
Pia's sister Sarah Wurtzbach apparently thought so, as well. "well said sis," she replied.
While Pia didn’t name any names, netizens in the comments section of her previous posts have made comparisons to Heart Evangelista, a Fashion Week mainstay. References were also made to Heart's "ex glam team," whom she had a falling out with last July 2023.
Pia Wurtzbach Attends Milan And Paris Fashion Week
Pia's journey to Paris Fashion Week was three years in the making. According to her husband, Beautiful Destinations founder Jeremy Jauncey, Pia was once told that she'd "never make it to fashion week."
"So whilst social media only shows the glitz & the glamour, never forget that every story starts somewhere… and I know how far away this story started for you. I’m so proud of you," Jeremy said.
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The beauty queen-host made her stylish Fashion Week debut in Milan (where she reunited with Miss Colombia 2015 Ariadna Gutierrez!) and Paris last October 2023.
In 2023, a study by two international marketing agencies named Pia the second-highest ranking celebrity in Milan Fashion Week, generating $3.4 million (P192 million) in media impact value.
This 2024, Pia was hailed as one of the "most visible influencers" during Milan Fashion Week, based on her earned media values (EMV) on Instagram, according to Lefty.io (an influencer marketing platform under The Independents Group).
Pia secured the sixth spot on their list with $2.95 million (P165,281,125 million) in EMV due to her 25 social media posts and appearances throughout Milan Fashion Week, including shows by Genny, Gucci, Tod's, Bally, Onitsuka Tiger, Missoni, Max Mara, and Fendi.
Pia is clearly enjoying her time in the fashion capitals, and we can't wait to see what she does next!
