Arts & Culture

PRIDE: All the Colors of the Rainbow

Albeit the pride month celebrations are coming to a close, the campaigns call for change whole year round. How much more beautiful could the world be when you add this much color?

Being who you are and showing the world just that has never been a problem when you are surrounded with an environment that is warmly accepting, and most importantly, if it’s what society thinks is right. This has been a mentality that has been going on for ages, the norms and the strict compliance for the absence of any peculiarity in this balance continues to be present in societal standards.

As time progresses, more and more movements and campaigns have been geared towards fighting for human rights for the the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community, or LGBT community. Their desire to live in a peaceful society that accepts them for who they are and gives them the opportunity to grow and take part in various activities in society has been burning like a flame that cannot be put out.

Calling for rights such as anti-discrimination and representation in different fields of practice, the LGBT movement has been a long-running movement supported by millions. The goal of leaving the thoughts of a strictly gender binary society to the middle ages is a tough call to make, especially in the Philippine setting, with a strong milieu of Catholic belief.

Famous multi-awarded actress Anne Hathaway during her 2008 acceptance speech of the Human Rights Campaign Ally Award called to attention her being known as brave for supporting gay marriage and adoption. However, there was one thing that Anne had to express to the crowd, “I’m not being brave; I’m being a decent human being. And I don’t think I should receive an award for that, or for merely stating what I believe to be true: that love is a human experience, not a political statement”.

Now that various parts of the world have made same-sex marriage legal, and some local governments in the Philippines have signed into law an anti-discrimination ordinance, there are have been various more issues that plague the LGBT community. Highlighted in this year, some of these issues include acts of violence, availability of healthcare, discrimination in the workplace, youth homelessness, as well as economic injustice.

Gender equality, despite not being a norm for centuries, is still advocated; members and advocates continue their plight for representation by being the best they can be in different fields of practice. Cebu City, just in time for this year’s pride month, approved the City Ordinance No. 2339 otherwise known as “An Ordinance Prohibiting Discrimination in the City of Cebu on the Basis of Disability, Age, Health Status, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Ethnicity and Religion” to be able to foster a culture of respect and co-inhabitance.

Members of the LGBT community, despite different pressures in society, continue to be proud of who they are and live on with the desire for equality and acceptance—not just tolerance.

Czar Dabon, 20, and an openly gay Mass Communication student from the University of the Philippines Cebu, shares how he takes pride in who he is. “I can be different in a colorful way”, he muses. Czar adds that he takes pride in not conforming to heteronormativity and the norms of society as he sees it as something powerful and unique.

He saw himself as a different kind of color back when he was in highschool. There was this one afternoon he couldn’t forget when he finally decided to tell his parents. “Ma, pa, murag di jud mo makakuhag apo gikan nako (Mom, Dad, it’s likely that you won’t get a grandchild from me)”, then 13 year-old Czar confessed while eating his snacks. It was such a warm embrace when he heard their response. “Okay rajud na namo basta di lang ka magbinuang (It’s definitely okay with us as long as you don’t stray).”

From then on, he says that he has been blessed with friends and family that readily accepted him for who he was, and this particular note made him the empowered person that he is today. For his fellow LGBT he urged them, “Look at yourselves in the mirror and be proud of who you are; and to not let society dull your color, because you are part of something greater.”

Abby Maranga, 23, a video content creator and filmmaker, sees the movement as a great way for members of the LGBT community to feel open about who they are. “I wanna say thank you to the people who fought and who continue to fight for the rights of LGBTQIA+ na maforward gyud and ma-hear sa mga katawhanan, gani naabot sad sa government (that it’s forwarded and heard by the people, and to the government)”, says Abby.

When it came to showing the world who she really is, it was not as hard as how other people experienced it, it didn’t even come as a shock. “I really did not come out man gyud as bi or gay, people just knew and I know they know. It became a normal thing gyud”, says Abby.

She adds that there are people who have had a hard time coming out and even accepting themselves. However tough this battle is or becomes, she sees the progress it brings to people in the society. She also stresses the need to just coexist peacefully with one another, without having to label people as girl, boy, or gay. “It feels empowering that I can continue to be who I am, more comfortable to just be. Also, it’s nice to know that there are a lot who think and feel like I do, so it doesn’t get lonely.”

Carla Jalbuna, a transgender woman and former Student Council Alliance of the Philippines Vice Chairperson, says that life stories of overcoming struggles as a community is what makes her proud the most. The movement for an environment that is not only welcoming, but also safe for the LGBT, from youth to the elderly, continues to grow strong.

“I feel empowered by waking up seeing the little milestone we achieve as a community day by day. It’s a reminder that we should never stop with defending and fighting for our rights”, says Carla. She shares that despite this growing movement, she also has her fair share of experiences of setbacks. Hearing people’s remarks especially about how one should act and present oneself, a testament of how society consistently gives the LGBT something to achieve as a form of validation.

Christian Licen, 30, an English Professor, shares his memories of coming out. “I remember having a pep talk with my father in third year college. He told me they’re okay with my sexual preference, but that I should promise them to finish college and be a decent and God-fearing professional,” he muses.

Since then, Christian has always regarded himself as effeminate. He sees that through the development of time, the Philippine society has become more and more accepting of the community he belongs in, which encourages him to openly express himself to be a better human everyday.

“To the LGBTQ community, now is the best time to be alive more than ever. We will continue to make the world a colorful and a liveable place. But let’s not forget that our freedom to express also comes with a great responsibility. Respect should come from within; modesty should always be a virtue in everything we do,” says Christian when asked about his message to his fellow LGBT.

Christian, who has lived his life as an academic, feels empowered in many ways. As it is his duty to set an example to his students and constituents, he has been one person many has looked up to in the institution. “I always strive my best to set a good example and to be a living witness that no matter the gender, sexual preference or identity we are all equal in the eyes of God.”

Ange Ibones, a 20 year-old fashion design student and a proud transgender woman, shares that if there’s one thing she’s proud of being in the community, it is because of the strength it emulates. “The strength to put ourselves out there and be who we truly are without holding back despite the many criticisms we get, we always rise above it all in the name of genuine happiness,” says Ange.

Since childhood, Ange always showed the real her no matter what. She was lucky to be surrounded by supportive people, especially her family. However, she recognizes that not everyone in the community gets to have that kind of love and support. “Live the life you deserve and never give up on your dreams because you are never alone on your journey, you have the whole community behind you cheering for your success. Never let negativity get into you and never let it dull your sparkle,” Ange urges her fellow LGBT.

It has always been the people around her that kept Ange going. It is when she gets the privilege to be who she is and is still loved without reservations that keeps her living the life she has now. In her every day, she is empowered to be greater than who she is and push her capabilities to its limits.

As there have been efforts to make the LGBT as visible as they can be and to normalize homosexuality, especially to the young ones, through movies and shows, the movement still stands. The LGBT community is not alone in their fight towards equality and justice. Like all movements, there is power in collective action and people from all walks of life have seen the power that pride can bring.

Albeit the pride month celebrations are coming to a close, the campaigns call for change whole year round. How much more beautiful could the world be when you add this much color?

Featured photo credits: UP Pride – Cebu Facebook Page

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.