Nic Chien. MJ Felipe, ABS-CBN News
Nic Chien, Lea Salonga's transgender son, is all set for his return to the stage with "Spring Awakening."
The mother and son duo recently appeared in the Manila staging of "Into the Woods."
Next month, both of them are stepping anew in the theater spotlight -- Chien with "Spring" and Salonga with "Les Miserables."
But months before, Chien made headlines when he shared a photo after undergoing top surgery.
"I did not expect it to be big news," he said.
Top surgery, also called "chest masculinization," is a gender-affirming surgery for transgender men to remove their breasts or breast tissues to create a flatter or more muscular chest.
The photo received mixed reviews and reactions. But for Chien, the process has been "incredible."
"I am so honored to have this opportunity and to have this position in the community," he said. "I couldn't imagine that I would have such an impact. And I only hope that what I do helps other kids and people who are like me live the lives they want to live and encourage other people."
Chien also shared with ABS-CBN News that he has been in TRT or testosterone replacement therapy for almost a year now. This is part of his transition and it is evident from his much-lowered tone of voice.
"I've been on testosterone therapy since March 2025, and I am all the better for it. I mean it's not for everybody, I will say that. But for me, I am very happy," he said.
Chien is thankful as he keeps getting a lot of love and support from his mom.
"She is all for it. My mom cares that I am living happily and that I am living who I really am. And that is what is important for her, and that is what’s important for me," he said.
He added: "And she much rather have me be happy and who she'd have to be with discovering as we go on and stuff, instead of me being depressed and not comfortable."