Bee has also been an avid supporter of LGBTQ+ rights in the Philippines and has lobbied for equality in the past. She acknowledges that while there has been valid progress in the movement over the last decade, the process remains slow. This influencer mentioned that to help pass the SOGIE Equality Bill, the LGBTQIA+ community must unite, build alliances with lawmakers, civic sectors, and moderate religious voices, and counter misinformation with clear, culturally grounded Filipino messaging. She also stressed leading the movement with empathy, discipline, and strategic action to make the bill both politically viable and socially accepted.
Bee Urgello in a Cary Santiago silk chiffon gown
Are you inspired by any visual artists lately?
This may come as a surprise to some, but most of my close friends know me as a geek. I’ve been collecting comics and Japanese manga, not to mention anime like Sailor Moon. I also love watching cartoons like X-Men, Marvel, and DC.
On the other hand, I’m also inspired by fashion as an art form. Somehow, my geeky and fashionista sides have blended together and shaped my personal style.
The anime and manga industry forms an integral part of Japan’s prominent cultural exports.
What kind of bag do you use these days?
Lately, my necessities have been narrowed down, so I’ve started leaning toward smaller-scale bags. I prefer multi-purpose ones like the Chanel Classic Flap or the Chanel Wallet on Chain. Also, the Saint Laurent Envelope Chain Bag is at the top of my list.
St. Laurent envelope chain bag
Is there a piece of jewelry or timepiece that you cannot part with?
Years back, my parents made me choose between a men’s and women’s Rolex two-tone Datejust watch. I chose the men’s style because it felt more edgy and versatile. It’s very special to me because it’s a timeless brand, and the fact that my parents let me choose meant a lot to me as a trans person.
Rolex two-tone datejust watch
Which fashion designers do you wear?
My favorite is definitely Cary Santiago, along with two of my closest friends, Harvey Cenit and Rei Escario. For international brands, I’ve always loved the classic silhouettes of Chanel and Dior. There’s also an Australian brand called Zimmermann—the designs are elegant, feminine, and whimsical.
The Zimmerman brand has become Australia’s first billion-dollar label after an acquisition from Advent International.
How many hours of sleep do you require?
I usually sleep around 9–10 PM and wake up at 7 AM. Seven hours of sleep is good enough for me; otherwise, I feel groggy and lazy if I oversleep.
Is there a television series or film you’re currently glued to?
I’m a couch potato and don’t party much anymore, so I spend a lot of time at home watching television series and films. Lately, I’ve been following Palm Royale, House of the Dragon, Emily in Paris, and Stranger Things.
Emily in Paris 5 is now streaming on Netflix
What inspires you the most?
Beauty. Beautiful objects inspire me, as well as beautiful moments with family and friends.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Contentment—being at peace with where your life is at the moment.
What is your favorite travel destination?
I love New York. Nothing feels more “citified” than Manhattan. When I’m there, I feel like the world is my oyster. It’s an amazing melting pot of people and cultures.
Manhattan has been described as the cultural, financial, media and entertainment capital of the world.