Have you ever gotten this kind of greeting? “Uy! Nagkakalaman ka na!” or “Bakit parang tumataba ka?” Even if someone tries to say it positively, it *can* be annoying—and uncalled for, especially if you haven’t seen them in a long time. Why do you have to look “payat” or sexy for people to greet you nicely and sincerely? 

On Instagram, many use filters to slim their face down or use different apps to make them look thinner. But when we post photos of our body featuring the things that make us human—stretch marks, a double chin, or a little belly fat—people say negative things. With the situation we have in the world today, isn’t it just better if we see things in a positive way? Whether thin or thick, body shaming is body shaming. Let’s put a stop to this, once and for all.

Everyone wants to have a perfect body – the sexy curves, thigh gaps, defined collar bones. But what does it mean to love yourself? Well first, loving yourself is about accepting who you are. It is better said than done, yes. But let’s take it one step at a time. Start by accepting your flaws inside and out. We women should learn to stand up for ourselves and not be belittled by other people. 

Let’s focus on Belo Babies who have set a good example:

Iza Calzado

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Positive Vibes Only 🦄

A post shared by Iza Calzado Wintle (@missizacalzado) on Dec 23, 2017 at 7:35pm PST

When people commented on Iza’s thighs and visible cellulite in this photo from December 2017, she took it in stride. 

See how she responds to bashers? Good vibes lang! It doesn’t matter what other people say. What matters is you’re being you, whether people love it or not.

Sue Ramirez

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Dagat na tayo pls ☀️🌊

A post shared by Sue Dodd (@sueannadoodles) on Oct 5, 2020 at 4:01am PDT

Sue is no stranger to people making inappropriate comments on her body on her Instagram account. In an interview with ABS-CBN, Sue was quoted as saying, “Whatever state your body is in, you should learn to embrace that. Everybody should be [comfortable in] their own skin. Don’t feel insecure. You’re beautiful in your own way. It’s normal to have stretch marks, it’s normal to have a double chin. Bilbil—it really doesn’t really matter. If you’re a bit chubby, it’s okay! Chubby girls cuddle better, baby. If you’re skinny, that’s beautiful, too.”

Very well said, Sue! No matter what shape, size, or color you are in, we are all beautiful. After all, God created each one of us to be uniquely beautiful in our own skin.

Dani Barretto

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I love you, Ju! ❤️ @juliabarretto Tumaba ako, i know. Wag na kayong nega. Masarap kumain eh 😋

A post shared by Dani Barretto-Panlilio (@danibarretto) on Mar 14, 2018 at 11:32pm PDT

In a March 2018 photo with sister Julia Barretto, Dani got ahead of the bashers she was sure would swarm her post. She added a footnote to her caption, saying “Tumaba ako, I know. Wag na kayong nega. Masarap kumain, eh.” It’s sad that we live in a world where we have to make disclaimers about our own bodies. That’s why we applaud the tweet she wrote to defend herself afterwards!

You go, girl! She’s confident in her own shape and skin, and there’s nothing wrong with that. People should worry less about others’ weight and body.

These women set a good example to anyone out there who might feel ashamed of their bodies. It’s the modern age, ladies and gentlemen! This world needs more peace, love, and acceptance. Everyone knows about the golden rule, right? “Do not do unto others what you would not want others to do unto you.” So the next time you think of reacting negatively about someone’s body, whether in public or in private, always think: “Is that how I would want them to treat me?” You’ll definitely know the answer right then and there.

We all feel insecure once in a while, but let’s not put others down as a result. Stand tall, be proud, and love yourself. Acceptance is key to living a beautiful life.