Catch Wong Kar Wai’s “Happy Together” on the big screen and other award-winning Pride movies only at Cinema ‘76

Cinema ’76 Film Society celebrates Pride Month with special limited screenings of critically acclaimed and awarded LGBT films.

Regarded as one of the best LGBT movies ever made, “Happy Together” is a 1997 Cannes-winning romantic drama directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-wai and features stellar performances from its stars Tony Leung and the late Leslie Cheung as two lovers caught in a turbulent affair.  This film is a must-see not only for fans of Queer Cinema but also fans of the celebrated auteur. "Happy Together" is considered one of Wong Kar-wai’s best works along with films like “Chungking Express” and “In the Mood for Love” and cinephiles shouldn’t miss the chance to see this masterpiece on the big screen.  

Pride Lit comes out as the first LGBTQ+ “Pop Lit” Imprint in the Philippines

As the first Filipino pop literature imprint focused on championing LGBTQ+ narratives, Pride Lit stands proud as a great source of entertainment and inspiration to readers of all kinds.

But more than teaching us the value of appreciation and acceptance, the brand has been very consistent in creating a safe space for underrepresented voices to flourish and share their stories, whether it’s about finding love in many forms and shapes or discovering one’s sexual awakening with fleeting moments of kilig.

LGBTQ Community Finds Ally With ACTS-OFW

Despite the modern age of progress and acceptance, there is still a long way to go in terms of the rights of the LGBTQ people and communities.  The Anti-Discrimination Bill SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression) Equality Bill is still waiting to be passed by congress. There is a need for it to be passed quickly due to the limited number of days needed to complete the process.

With legislation a very important part of building laws and legislative intervention for the progress of the Filipino society. The role of both houses is to pass these laws but without support from individual congressmen and senators, these key bills would not be passed and implemented.

Inaugural Boy Abunda Awards Honor LGBT Champions

The first ever Boy Abunda LGBT Awards (BALA) honored lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender leaders in Philippine society. The awardees included individuals and groups that have made significant contributions to create further visibility of the LGBT advocacy and raise awareness about LGBT struggles.

The list was an exciting combination of respected personalities in the LGBT community, young and up-and-coming voices, as well as institutions that have committed to uplifting the LGBT plight. The trophies were distributed to the winners last May 17. BALA may be considered by some as bold and brash, mirroring the personality of its founder– Boy Abunda, Ph.D.

Blah Blah Blogs: USA Now Land of Equality

It has been a while since I've made a post for personal opinion in Blah Blah Blogs. It was quire timely that the hot topic of legalization of gay marriage in the United States via its Supreme Court made it official throughout the whole nation. Though there has been several states that made it legal prior to this decision. It has become a big buzz throughout the world with big brands and key personalities show support and celebration to the triumph of equality.

However, conservatives and religious sectors show dismay with the result and has condemned the ruling as very "immoral" and against the rule of nature. They are also linking that this is related to the demise of Sodom and Gomorrah. There are also warnings from them about other will follow suit like Pedophiles and "people who would also marry animals". But that would be very far as gay marriage is completely different from those concepts, like Pedophilia is a crime against minors while the other is bestiality. This again opened and divided believers on their stand and understanding of the ruling.

Rainbow Run for LGBT Rights

A CALL TO OPEN HEARTS AND OPEN MINDS

A woman blessed with stunning looks and enviable pedigree doesn’t usually wish she was a member of the third sex… but Divine Lee does… well she isn’t exactly a woman, not according to her gay friends. 

“Proud ako to say na yes, Baklang Babae ako! As in Baklang, Baklang Babae!” proclaimed the gorgeous Ms. Lee in her speech during “Ladlad 8: The Metamorphosis”, a fundraising dinner in celebration of the political party’s 8th Anniversary. She further surprised the audience when she expressed her wish for a gay child in the future.

Entertainment value aside, the essence in Divine’s message is her call for equality. Her dearest friends are gay and she cited specific incidences when they were discriminated upon in establishments, job applications even at a public beach.