Inclusivity plays a crucial role in creating spaces where individuals of all identities can be celebrated and respected. This principle is at the heart of Tomboy Philippines 2024, the first national pageant for lesbians in the country.
Headed by Chit Reyes and supported by Cowee Santos, CEO of Tree House Real Estate and Ventures, the event aims to celebrate and empower the lesbian community in the Philippines. The pageant seeks not only to showcase talent but also to promote the rights and visibility of lesbians in the public sphere.
According to Reyes and Santos, the pageant, which they aim to hold annually, offers a platform that highlights the talents and presence of the lesbian community. It challenges traditional norms and pushes for greater visibility and acceptance of diverse sexual identities.
“It reflects the growing need for inclusivity in all areas of society, ensuring that marginalized voices are seen and heard,” they said.
Tomboy Philippines 2024 is more than just a beauty contest – it’s a bold statement of empowerment and equality, according to the duo.
“Through the pageant, we are creating a space where lesbians can shine and affirm their rights in a society where such opportunities have long been dominated by other sectors of the LGBTQ+ community,” Reyes and Santos added.
“The initiative not only fosters inclusivity but also promotes the idea that everyone, regardless of their identity, deserves recognition, respect, and the chance to showcase their talents on a national stage,” they carried on.
The inaugural Tomboy Philippines was launched on Sept. 14 in Quezon City with the presentation of 30 official candidates. “For a long time, gay pageants have been the most prevalent. It’s time for the talent of lesbians to be recognized,” Reyes said during the launch.
“Our goal is to go worldwide and start here in the Philippines, to show that equal rights should be attained by everyone,” the organizers said.
This year’s candidates represent various regions, including Anntoi Deloso (South Cotabato), Louie Ele (Nueva Ecija), Rinoa Nicolas (Binangonan, Rizal), Jhan Nanit (Antipolo, Rizal), Bana Daranciang (Sta. Rosa, Laguna), Rhed Sasaki (Zambales), JC Lapitan (Batangas), Keith Martin (General Santos City), Jhes Remedio (Muntinlupa City), Gele Pablo (Navotas City), Thea Lising (Angono, Rizal), Banwar Taclibon (Bacoor, Cavite), Armi De Leon (Morong, Rizal), Mosh dela Cruz (Camarines Sur), Miel Cinco (Angeles City), and Ace Tenero (Taguig City).
Also part of the official list of candidates are Mitzi Ancog (Iligan City), BF Delos Reyes (Bulakan, Bulacan), Elei Reyes (Quezon City), Alliah Briones (Oriental Mindoro), Gel Grayda (Cainta, Rizal), Ac Cemetara (Pasay City), Bodi Francisco (Abra), Emzz Bernardino (Tondo, Manila), Aj Alecida (Valencia City), Kim Siao (Valenzuela City), Arvy Bodlong (Albay), Prince Obleada (Quezon City), Yanyan Purification (San Pedro, Laguna), and Phao Faraon (Malabon City).
from the city of Malabon
“Lesbians, we have long been fighting for equality. It’s still a long way off, but we are getting closer. We will achieve the ‘equality rights’ we are seeking,” Reyes added, encouraging the community.
The preliminary competition will take place at One 690 Entertainment Bar, with the grand coronation set for Oct. 19 at the Music Museum.
