Gabbi Garcia Opens Up About Her PCOS Journey And Why Being "Sexy" Isn't Her Priority

Gabbi Garcia is no stranger to the spotlight—but in a recent Instagram post, the actress-host reminded us that strength doesn't always come from looking a certain way. Sometimes, it comes from finally choosing to be kind to your body.

In a carousel post documenting her fitness journey last December 20, Gabbi revealed that she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) back in 2018. It's something she's kept private for years—until she decided it was time to share her story, not for validation, but for healing.

"Movement became my safe space. My release. My stress reliever. My reset," Gabbi wrote. It was clear that her decision to work out wasn't about chasing a specific body type. "I started because I wanted to feel strong, healthy, and good in my own skin."

PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age and is often linked to irregular periods, weight gain, hormonal imbalances, acne, and fertility challenges. According to the World Health Organization, PCOS affects an estimated six to 13% of women globally—yet up to 70% remain undiagnosed. In the Philippines alone, millions of women are believed to be living with the condition.

For Gabbi, one of the most visible (and emotionally challenging) symptoms has been weight fluctuation and bloating, something she says is often magnified on screen. "Yes, mabilis din akong tumaba. Minsan mataba ako sa TV… there are a lot of days when I feel bloated, days with a moon face, the 'PCOS belly,'" she shared honestly. Even on days when she's doing "everything right," the symptoms still show up—and that's something many women with PCOS deeply relate to.

It wasn't until about three years ago that Gabbi decided to shift her mindset. Instead of fighting her body, she chose to show up for it. And now, she's measuring progress differently.

"I'm at a point kung saan basta strong and healthy ako, okay na ako," she wrote. She finds pride in what her body can do: running, lifting, carrying herself through tough days. "Being 'sexy' the way society defines it is honestly the least of my priorities."

This reframing, she says, taught her body positivity "in the truest sense"—not the performative kind, but the quiet, daily practice of listening to your body and respecting its limits. PCOS may be a lifelong condition, but it is manageable through movement, lifestyle changes, medical support, and—just as importantly—self-compassion.

Opening up also meant being met with love. In the comments, friends and celebrities rallied behind Gabbi, affirming her journey and strength. Fellow Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition co-host Bianca Gonzalez praised her mindset, writing, "Yesss 🙌 working out for sanity and strength 🔥🔥," while her long-time boyfriend Khalil Ramos left a sweet message of support, calling her his "supergirl."

Gabbi ended her post with a gentle reminder to fellow PCOS warriors: "If this is your journey too, be kinder to yourself 🤍 You're not alone."