First Filipina Victoria’s Secret Angel featured in Vogue
MANILA, Philippines — After getting the modeling stint at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2018, Kelsey Merritt responded to bashers saying she is not Filipino.
On her Twitter account, the Ateneo graduate stressed that she was born and raised in Pampanga.
Pinanganak ako sa Pilipinas at lumaki ako sa Pampanga. Tinapos ko ang pagaaral ko sa Manila bago ako lumipat sa US last year. Mas pinoy pa dugo ko kesa sa mga “pure” na hindi pa nakatapak sa Pilinipas. I love my country and I’m proud of where I came from. ??
— Kelsey Merritt (@kelsmerritt) September 9, 2018
“Pinanganak ako sa Pilipinas at lumaki ako sa Pampanga. Tinapos ko ang pagaaral ko sa Manila bago ako lumipat sa US last year. Mas pinoy pa dugo ko kesa sa mga ‘pure’ na hindi pa nakatapak sa Pilipinas. I love my country and I’m proud of where I came from,” she wrote.
Netizens commented on her post, saying words of encouragement to the first Pinay who will ramp in a celebrated event in the fashion scene.
“Being a Filipino doesn’t mean you need to be full blood pinoy. Nasa puso yan. We will always be proud of you in every path you take,” a netizen asserted.
Currently, Kelsey is preparing for the fashion show as she continues to share photos and videos of her shooting, training and workout as a new VS Angel.
When you reach your goals before noon. https://t.co/HKNzLhltcB pic.twitter.com/9tuzvOR4kK
— Victoria's Secret (@VictoriasSecret) September 9, 2018
International fashion magazines British Vogue and Teen Vogue also featured Kelsey in recognition of her achievement as the first Pinay Angel.
Meet Kelsey Merritt! https://t.co/P4kv22cuce
— Teen Vogue (@TeenVogue) September 10, 2018
From runway regulars Winnie Harlow and Devon Windsor to rising stars like Kelsey Merritt and Iesha Hodges https://t.co/vJheoUW4RC
— British Vogue (@BritishVogue) September 11, 2018
