Arts & Culture

Balak: Cebuanas Writing Their Heart Out And Speaking Their Mind

Spoken word poetry in Cebu has been celebrated by a ton of people in different cafes and restaurants. With perhaps a cup of coffee or a bottle of beer in hand, one may have witnessed the beauty of literature through spoken word in a number of Cebu’s venues and hubs.

It’s not always that people start from the top, nor are they blessed with all the talent and skills to cultivate themselves fit for what they wanted to do or pursue. Valerie Tesing started her journey as a poet back when she was in elementary school, reminiscing her childhood when she pushed herself hard to find words that rhymed to perfect her first few poems.

For Valerie, she never really saw herself as someone who could write poems—she didn’t even love literature in the first place. She would love to think that it was fate that brought her towards literature, and she thanks the universe for it.

It is said that when one is such a bookworm, it would reflect in their writing, just like two peas in a pod. But for Valerie, she hadn’t read that many poems to master the art before she began writing one.

“I could not exactly remember the very first poem I wrote, but I know it only took me a piece of paper and pen to write all the words down. It was as if my mind was already an attic of words, and I never knew it existed until I tried to uncover it,” shares Valerie.

For the rest of Valerie’s college life, she was known to be one to enjoy slam poetry and the balak. She would go to events catering such an activity and share her pieces which come in a variety of genres.

One of her favorite pieces include one called “Love and War”. On why she deemed it her favorite, she shares that it spoke of her story to the LGBTQIA+ community. It is also one of the very first poems she performed to an audience, an event, the “Bundak! Balak! Pride!” The poem speaks about a love not accepted, a love that would mean “suffocation”, “loss”, and being “wrong”. It is part of her advocacy to voice out and express the woes of those seen as minorities in the society.

“Only Warm When I’m Naked”, another piece of hers, speaks about her invisibility as an artist in our family and with her peers.

“Poets are not commonly recognized as artists I think, pretty much because we use words rather than paint or cameras, and even recently, some poems are reduced to just “hugot” in our culture so they’re not taken seriously as they should be,” says Valerie.

Poetry has been a way for Valerie to express her feelings, although it hasn’t been easy for her. There are no exact words to describe feelings and emotions such as being in love, or being happy, and according to Valerie, in order for these feelings to be described, poetry has shaped her eyes to search stories she can write about that truly speak out.

“You are able to express love in a story as small as finding a raindrop on your windowsill, or listening to your dog’s breaths. Poetry simplifies feelings/emotions in a way that it concretizes the abstract,” says Valerie.

When asked how she’d get millennials like her to appreciate literature in today’s age, she advises them to read more and sail to a sea of stories because they’re all just waiting to be read.

Writing poems and performing spoken word poetry in front of an audience is just some of Juanita Romualdez’s talents. You probably know the Cebuana as a video of her doing balak got viral a week ago, a proof of how her words touched a number of people. She is also a nationally renowned singer under Viva Records and has released a number of albums and singles such as “Inday” and “We’ll Never Know”. Graduating with a Linguistics and Literature majors in college, Juanita is set to be a woman of words.

“This (balak or spoken word poetry) really opened me up to a wide range of poetry styles and forms of literature in general,” shares Juanita. Through her Cebuano Poetry major subjects back then, she fell in love at how poetic the language can be. She shares that back then, Balak would be seen as something baduy, and sarcastic remarks such as “ka lawom ba uy! (how deep!)” would ensue.

It was a struggle for Juanita to write her own balak, due to her lack of vocabulary and metaphors that “sprout from a Cebuano sensibility”. However, this did not stop her as getting into Cebuano spoken word poetry allowed her to create pieces that work around her writing capabilities.

She recalls her beginnings in poetry writing, which she has done since at a very young age.

“I remember that my yearly gift (for all occasions) to my parents were poorly written poems, but they did come from the heart. And they knew very well that’s all my 7-year old self could afford to give,” Juanita muses.

Overwhelming support from the family showered Juanita the encouragement she needed to keep on writing, as her family framed these poems she gave out, a testament of how they loved the pieces.

High school came and Juanita started taking writing seriously by entering essay competitions and poetry contests.

“I just love words. Even the simplest ones. Can you believe that my favorite word is ‘blue’?”, shares Juanita. “I always share this in my workshops. I am not particularly fond of the actual “color blue” , but I love how the B and L roll so naturally into the U and E, it’s just such a delight to say! That’s the secret of writing, I guess,” she adds.

To write with passion, one has to enjoy the words and use the words one is comfortable with, and those that you know how to manipulate to your advantage. Contrary to popular belief, Juanita shares that in writing poetry, it’s not all about writing to impress. As much as she can, she made a vow to try to veer away from “lofty” words unless needed.

“The magic happens when you can take simple words and form something wonderful out of them. Because there is no perfect form of literature, but people will fall in love with genuine pieces/stories,” Juanita says.

Although she got into writing Bisaya Poetry a little late, she takes pride in some of her pieces. One of her first creations was about a time when she was late for a workshop. It circled around the struggle she went through of finding a ride and resorted to taking a habal-habal. Not only that, the piece also talked about her having to finish putting make-up while the driver zoomed through the streets. With this piece, Juanita was able to see the comical nature of the balak, which was what made her enjoy creating it.

Another Bisaya Poem she loved among her pieces, and was also definitely a crowd’s favorite was the one entitled “Isturyahinubog” (drunk talk). It starts with the line “gihigugma rako niya kung hubog siya (but in English I start it with” he never loved me sober”), which makes the crowd go crazy all because at one point in time, we’ve all experienced this.

When asked of her writing technique, Juanita shares that part of writing a piece is to take a “general concept” which is something that everyone has either experienced or can relate to, and place ideas and words that make it personal to you. The effectiveness in the details would speak to your audience.

Juanita, aside from writing songs, has turned to poetry writing to express herself. She says that poetry is both therapeutic and traumatic. Its ability to let you release your feelings and pour them out on a piece of paper gives you the beautiful work of immortalizing your feelings.

A growing number of millennials have ventured in this art of spoken word poetry. Juanita takes pride in this literature appreciation trend in Cebu, and it is continuing to grow through Cebu LitFest, an avenue promoting literature, most especially spoken word poetry. This 2018, Cebu LitFest is set to kickoff its various activities during the month of July, conducting workshops all over the city and putting up “Open Mic” nights for everyone to express themselves through poetry as well.

The Literary Festival, which is a celebration of the rich literature and art found in Cebu’s local scene and all over the world is how Valerie and Juanita learned to master the art of manipulating words through the different forms it can become, more fuller, more beautiful.

Arts & Culture

Asia’s Fashion Czar I Knew as Tito Pitoy; Remembrance of a Friendship Beyond Fashion with Designer Jose R. Moreno

by Jose Carlos G. Campos, Board of Trustees National Museum of the Philippines

My childhood encounter with the famous Pitoy Moreno happened when I was eight years old. My maternal grandmother, Leonila D. Garcia, the former First Lady of the Philippines, and my mother, Linda G. Campos, along with my Dimataga aunts, brought me to his legendary atelier on General Malvar Street in Malate, Manila. These were the unhurried years of the 1970s.

As we approached the atelier, I was enchanted by its fine appointments. The cerulean blue and canary yellow striped canopies shaded tall bay windows draped in fine lace—no signage needed, the designer’s elegance spoke for itself. Inside, we were led to a hallway adorned with Art Deco wooden filigree, and there was Pitoy Moreno himself waiting with open arms—”Kamusta na, Inday and Baby Linda,” as he fondly called Lola and Mommy.

“Ahhh Pitoy, it’s been a while,” Lola spoke with joy.
“Oh eto, may kasal na naman,” my mom teasingly smiled.

Linda Garcia Campos and Pitoy Moreno’s friendship started when they were students in the University of the Philippines in Diliman.

When Dame Margot Fonteyn came for a visit to Manila, Pitoy Moreno dressed her up for an occasion.

We had entered a world of beauty—porcelain figurines, ancient earthenware and pre-colonial relics. It was like stepping into a looking glass, only Pitoy could have imagined.

Destiny led me back years later when my mother Linda told me that Pitoy Moreno was working on his second book, Philippine Costume, and needed research material and editorial advice. At this point, around the 1990s, I was in between assignments—unsure of how a broadcasting graduate like me could possibly contribute to a fashion icon’s masterpiece. Fortunately, I agreed to the project.

Former First Lady Leonila D. Garcia and daughter Linda G. Campos in Malacañang Palace.

Returning to the designer’s atelier brought back a rush of pleasant memories. The gate opened, and there stood Pitoy Moreno, beaming as always.
“Come in, hijo. Let me show you what I have in mind—and call me Tito Pitoy, okay?”
He led me to his worktable.
“I want to publish a book that tells the story of Philippine fashion—from our pre-colonial roots to the present. A designer’s collection of images and heritage expressed in clothing.”

I was awestruck. “How can I help you?” I inquired.
“Did you know that your mother, Linda, was my barkada in the University of the Philippines in Diliman?” he grinned.

US President Dwight Eisenhower with First Lady Leonila Garcia and President Carlos Garcia in a state dinner at Malacañang Palace in Manila.

That friendship soon led to one of the proudest moments of the designer’s life. He had the opportunity to dress not only the First Lady Leonila D. Garcia but also President Carlos P. Garcia during his term. It was also during this time that the President of the United States, Dwight Eisenhower, came for an official visit to Manila. The designer was able to make clothes for the President, his daughter, and his staff.
“Eisenhower even asked for discounts on the barong Tagalog,” Tito Pitoy laughed.

Tito Pitoy then asked if I could find a terno he had made for my Lola, the former First Lady, which she wore for President Eisenhower’s state visit in 1960.
“How about her other ternos, dated from the 1920s to the 1960s?” I offered.
He lit up.

I scoured my Lola’s extensive closet—it felt like unearthing a legacy. Tucked behind layers of vintage ternos from countless fashion designers, I found that terno, which was photographed by Dick Baldovino along with other pieces for the book project. Once the project was finished and I myself had moved on, my bond with Tito Pitoy never wavered.

When my Lola passed away, he was deeply touched when I personally informed him of the sad news. Once, at the wake of former Vice President Salvador Laurel, he asked me to assist him in the placement of the medals in the chapel.

Philippine Costume by Jose Moreno is the designer’s collection of images and heritage expressed in clothing.

Tito Pitoy later invited me to his 80th birthday celebration—a dazzling Manila affair in 2012. During the evening’s festivities, he handed me a printed copy of Philippine Costume and added warmly,
“Thank you, hijo. I’ll call on you for the next one.”

The highlight of his career—and his most unforgettable moment—came during the Metro Magazine Gala fashion show: A Tribute to Pitoy Moreno, Fashion Icon. A collection of evening gowns spanning six decades—many of them unseen and tucked away in his atelier—were revealed that night. When the finale came, Tito Pitoy walked the stage, triumphant and waving to a sea of admirers. Longtime friends from the industry, society’s finest, and fashionistas rose from their seats and gave him a standing ovation.

It wasn’t just to celebrate his craft and ingenuity—it was to honor the man who brought elegance, history, and heart in every stitch.

Arts & Culture

Queer Coding in Cinema: The Best Shows to Binge for Pride Month 2025

compiled by Edge Javier

As Pride Month 2025 goes into full swing, the best way to celebrate LGBTQIA+ voices is with a binge-worthy lineup of shows that center queer stories, joy, love, resilience — and yes, of course, drama. From groundbreaking recent series to must-watch staples and fan favorites, here are the top shows to stream this June that reflect the vibrant spectrum of the queer-coded experience.

1. Heartstopper – Season 3 (Netflix)
Nick and Charlie are back, and the coming-of-age sweetness is stronger than ever. Season 3 explores deeper emotional territory while keeping the wholesome tone fans adore. Expect more queer joy, nuanced relationships, and tearjerker moments that feel like a warm hug.

2. Drag Me to Dinner (Hulu)
Hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, this chaotic culinary competition pairs drag duos in a battle to throw the most fabulous themed dinner party. With outrageous challenges, surprise twists, and plenty of camp, queens serve up equal parts food, flair, and fierce shade. It’s RuPaul meets Top Chef—served with a side of sequins.

3. Queer Planet (Apple TV+)
Hosted by Janelle Monáe, this visually stunning docuseries dives into queerness in the animal kingdom and parallels in human identities. It’s smart, groundbreaking, and perfect for those who want to feel seen—and informed.

4. Fellow Travelers (Paramount+)
This period romance-drama set during the Lavender Scare continues to grip audiences with its tragic beauty and sharp historical insight. If you missed Season 1, now is the perfect time to catch up before the highly anticipated Season 2 lands later this year.

5. The Buccaneers – Season 2 (Apple TV+)
The unapologetically queer period drama returns with more scandal, sapphic yearning, and feminist rebellion among American heiresses navigating high society in 1870s London. Think Bridgerton, but with more edge and better sapphic representation.

6. Our Flag Means Death – The Finale Special (Max)
This fan-favorite pirate rom-com wraps up with a one-hour finale special airing this June. Whether you’re rewatching from the start or jumping into the last hurrah, this show remains a shining example of queer love told with heart and humor.

7. This Is Me Now… The Series (Prime Video)
Following Jennifer Lopez’s genre-blurring film-musical hybrid, the series version delves into themes of love, identity, and self-acceptance, and features cameos by queer icons and allies. It’s campy, messy, and made for Pride Month mood-boosting.

8. Sort Of – Final Season (Max)
This critically acclaimed dramedy about a gender-fluid millennial navigating love, grief, and identity in Toronto comes to a close with an emotionally rich final season. A thoughtful and often hilarious story that never loses its beating heart.

9. Red, White & Royal Blue – Limited Series (Prime Video)
After the hit film adaptation, the beloved queer romance returns in a serialized format, expanding on Alex and Henry’s story with new twists and deeper character arcs. It’s romantic escapism, elevated.

10. POSE: The Legacy (FX/Hulu)
This documentary miniseries honors the cultural legacy of POSE and the real-life ballroom legends who inspired it. Featuring interviews with cast, creators, and icons from the scene, it’s a must-watch tribute to queer history and resilience.

Whether you’re looking for laughter, tears, romance, or revolution, these Pride Month picks for 2025 offer it all—while honoring the complexity and beauty of LGBTQIA+ lives. So press play, turn up the volume, and let queer stories shine this June and beyond. Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈

Arts & Culture

Chaos and Clarity: Zen Aesthetic in Oj Hofer’s Art

by Jing Ramos |

Oj Hofer, our fashion contributing editor, is a Fine Arts graduate from the University of the Philippines. Though he began painting at the age of eight, his artistic journey took a transformative turn in 2013. While volunteering as a costume designer for Siddhartha: The Musical, he encountered Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s One-Stroke Calligraphy, sparking a deep devotion to Japanese sumi-e painting and kanji calligraphy. Over the years, he refined his craft, using his art to share the Dharma through exhibitions while supporting the Hsing Yun Educational Foundation. In 2022, his spiritual path deepened at Nan Tien University, where he embraced Zen and Humanistic Buddhism, shaping his artistic philosophy.

“Plum Blossoms in Moonlight.” Serigraphy on abaca.

In his recent works, Hofer merges traditional calligraphy with serigraphy, drawing inspiration from his friend Charles Lahti—an internationally recognized New York-based painter and printmaker. Lahti, known for his collaborations with post-war American artists like Robert Rauschenberg, Donald Judd, Andy Warhol, and LeRoy Neiman, introduced Hofer to silkscreen techniques. Through a workshop Lahti conducted in Cebu—arranged by their mutual friend Greg Urra—Hofer integrated silkscreen into his Zen artworks, particularly those on abaca.

“The Circle of Harmony” Serigraphy and Calligraphy on abaca.

Hofer’s cross-disciplinary approach challenges conventional Zen aesthetics. His layered paintings on abaca may seem far from tranquil at first glance, but closer contemplation reveals a meditative core. His serigraph of an Enso circle, for example, initially appears chaotic, filled with Tang Dynasty poetry and overlapping, repetitive forms. Yet, by focusing on a single calligraphic element, the viewer experiences a moment of clarity—a glimpse of awakening within the visual complexity.

“Monkey Mind” Serigraphy and Calligraphy on abaca.

Even more engaging is his diptych Monkey Mind. At odds with the traditional Zen emphasis on negative space, this piece is deliberately busy, reflecting the restless nature of the mind. A distracted viewer may struggle to find a focal point, but one attuned to emptiness and presence will perceive clarity amidst the seeming disarray.

Ink and intention—creating calligraphy in support of one of my advocacies.

By fusing Zen philosophy with the discipline of serigraphy, Hofer invites his audience to look beyond surface impressions and discover stillness within movement, balance within complexity. His art does not merely depict Zen—it embodies the paradoxes at its core, offering a path to mindfulness through the act of seeing and the experience of doing.