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Here are 10 other Filipino icons who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community

With the recent inspiring revelation of Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee, as bisexual, the movement towards inclusivity continues to flourish. 

In recent years, celebrities have been playing a major part in promoting understanding and breaking down barriers which help members of the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines gain more visibility and acceptance. 

In this article, we will explore the stories of ten other remarkable LGBTQ+ Filipino stars who have fearlessly shared their sexual orientations and championed love and acceptance.

1. Vice Ganda (José Marie Viceral) – Gay

Photo from Vice Ganda on Instagram

Starting off strong with one of the most prominent faces in the entertainment industry, Vice Ganda is an openly gay comedian, actor, and television host. With his quick wit and undeniable talent, Vice Ganda has become a beloved figure in the Filipino entertainment landscape. His openness about his identity has paved the way for discussions on LGBTQ+ rights and has inspired countless individuals.

2. Angelina Mead King (Ian King) – Transgender

Photo from Ian King on Instagram

Angelina Mead King, formerly known as Ian King, is a transgender woman and a successful businessperson. She made headlines when she came out publicly and shared her transition journey. In 2022, she graced the cover of Tatler Philippines, which was done to celebrate diversity and inclusion.

3. Jake Zyrus (Charice Pempengco) – Transgender

Photo from Jake Zyrus Facebook Page

Formerly known as Charice Pempengco, Jake Zyrus is a talented singer and songwriter. Jake bravely shared his true identity as a transgender man despite facing a lot of challenges throughout his journey, but he has empowered and uplifted others, advocating for self-acceptance and love.

4. Boy Abunda – Gay

Photo from Boy Abunda Facebook Page

A respected television host, talent manager, and public figure – Boy Abunda is known for his eloquence and thought-provoking interviews. Boy Abunda has been open about his homosexuality and has used his platform to raise awareness and foster understanding within Filipino society.

5. Geena Rocero – Transgender

Photo from Geena Rocero Facebook Page

Geena Rocero, a Filipina transgender model and activist, gained international recognition after revealing her identity during a TED Talk in 2014. She has since become an advocate for transgender rights and visibility, using her voice and platform to amplify the stories of transgender individuals worldwide.

6. Aiza Seguerra – Lesbian

Photo from Aiza Seguerra on Instagram

Aiza Seguerra, a multi-talented singer that made an impact in the OPM industry, publicly came out as a lesbian in 2007. Known for her soulful voice and meaningful lyrics, Aiza has used her music to express her journey of self-discovery and to promote acceptance and love in the Filipino LGBTQ+ community.

7. Raymond Gutierrez – Gay

Photo from Raymond Gutierrez on Instagram

Raymond Gutierrez, a versatile actor and heartthrob, identifies as gay. He has been vocal about his sexual orientation after coming out in 2021, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity. He wants everyone to live their truth.

8. BB Gandanghari (Rustom Padilla) – Transgender

Photo from BB Gandanghari on Instagram

BB Gandanghari, formerly known as Rustom Padilla, is a transgender woman, actress, and television personality. After years of living in the public eye as a male actor, BB bravely came out as transgender in 2006. Her journey has inspired many, encouraging conversations about gender identity and acceptance in the Philippines.

9. KaladKaren (Jervi Li) – Transgender

Photo from KaladKaren Facebook Page

KaladKaren is a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and actress. She identifies as a transgender woman and has been an advocate for queer visibility and rights in the Philippines. Her bravery in embracing her authentic self and making waves in the Filipino TV comedy scene has sparked conversations about gender fluidity and expanded the understanding of gender within Filipino society.

10. Ricky Reyes – Gay

Photo from Ricky Reyes Learning Institute Facebook Page

Ricky Reyes, also known as “Mother Ricky,” is a renowned hair stylist, entrepreneur, and television personality. He publicly came out as gay in the early 2000s, breaking barriers as an openly gay figure in the beauty industry very early on. Being one of the people that set the stage, Riicky has since used his influence to promote acceptance, support, and empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community.

It is clear that love transcends gender and sexual orientation as we honor the diverse and brave LGBTQ+ Filipino celebrities who have proudly shared their authentic selves.

The barriers of prejudice and discrimination are gradually knocked down by each coming-out story, paving the path for a society that is more accepting. 

In the end, love is still love – a powerful force that unites us all, regardless of who we are or whom we love. Let us continue to support and uplift these incredible individuals as they pave the way for a more accepting future for all.

Fashion designer Pepito Albert has passed away at age 63

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Pepito Albert, the renowned Filipino designer known for his signature silhouette styles, has passed away at the age of 63. 

His death on May 28, 2023 came as a shock to many, with the news spreading through heartfelt tribute posts on social media from those who held him dear. The cause of death was not publicized.

Photo from Korina Sanchez – Roxas

Throughout his illustrious career, Pepito Albert has gained recognition for his ability to create stunning long gowns and exquisite Filipiana wear. 

His exceptional talent attracted a loyal following, primarily composed of socialites with notable names such as Irene Marcos Araneta, Kaye Tinga, and Rica Lorenzo who admired his work.

As his skill and artistry grew, his work caught the attention of renowned publications including Harpers Bazaar, Vogue, and Elle. His designs graced the pages of these influential magazines, solidifying his reputation as a promising designer.

With a keen eye for innovation and a quiet sense of sophistication, Pepito left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, one that continues to shape and inspire designers today.

The passing of Pepito Albert is a tremendous loss for the fashion world and the Philippines.

Photo from Rajo Laurel on Instagram
Photo from Rajo Laurel on Instagram

His dedication to his craft, his unwavering pursuit of excellence, and his distinctive style will be greatly missed. 

As we mourn the loss of a truly talented individual, we extend our deepest condolences to Pepito’s family and friends. May he find eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to shine brightly in the fashion industry he loved so dearly.

SM Seaside Hacks: Try out these 4 aweSM hacks to elevate your SM Cinema Experience

Lights, camera, popcorn!

It’s a Friday night, a new movie is showing in Cinemas, and you are definitely going. But, of course, one does not go to battle unprepared, and by that, we mean HACKS. Did you know there are hacks you can do to elevate your Cinema experience? Who wouldn’t want a no-hassle movie night?  

Lucky for you, SM Cinema Seaside City Cebu has four different hacks to ensure a smooth sailing film experience. So grab your pens and take note of these great hacks that lead to a multisensory experience as low as ₱370 each.

1. The Large Screen Format Cinema Experience

A screen almost 30% larger than the regular cinema screen size? Now that’s an upgrade!

Let’s face it; as moviegoers, what we look for in a fantastic cinema is a great sound system and a clear picture. Personally, we prefer a more surreal viewing experience where the colors are vibrant, and we can clearly see what we are watching.

This is why SM Cinema brings you the “Large Screen Format.” It features a super-sized screen that uses the Christie 6P laser projection system, reproducing the colors of the actual movie set. In addition, the Large Screen Format also uses the Dolby Atmos Sound System and Christie Vive Speakers. 

What’s great about this sound system is that it allows a riveting and immersive surround-sound movie experience.

2. Advance Ticket Selling

We’ve all tried being late to the movies, and the consequences were awful seats. But worry not; here’s a hack to help you with that. 

If you are planning a date with your significant other or even a date with yourself, you must book a ticket in advance. You can avail of a ticket at SM Seaside Cinemas during the advance ticket selling. This hack will get you the best seats in the house.

You can book tickets in advance at smcinema.com

3. Load up on Snacks

You know what they say; love is sharing popcorn. 

You can get all the snacks you want at Snack Time and choose the perfect complement to your aweSM movie experience. Snack Time offers a variety of snacks, such as sandwiches, burgers, different flavors of popcorn, sodas, fries, and more. They even have burger combos complete with burgers of your choice, a choice of drink, and freshly popped popcorn. 

4. Book a Cinema

Looking for an exclusive place to watch movies for your family and friends?

Book a Cinema and enjoy an exclusive screening at Director’s Club with your family, friends or corporate bonding event show!

https://www.facebook.com/SMCinemaSeasideCityCebu/posts/pfbid07L79wff1NP39tvNSPaqHgpVoW4vr5vNZ18dxuxPyACZxCr3r8Hen7tKaP4s4EvJSl

Cheer on your favorite bias, cry, laugh, and be scared in your favorite movie in a tow with booking your Cinema. For rates and inclusions, email: [email protected] or call (032) 340-8735 local 77.

And there you have it, the great hacks for a surreal and fantastic movie experience. What are you waiting for? Book in advance and choose the large screen format to kickstart your movie night. Oh, don’t forget to buy snacks too!

Cinema Locations: 

  • Large Screen Format & Centerstage: Second Level, Mountain Wing (infront of H&M)
  • Regular Cinemas: Second Level, Mountain Wing (beside So Fab!)
  • Director’s Club: Second Level, Seaview Wing (beside The Spud Diner)

All prices are subject to change without notice and are not guaranteed.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact Location: SM Seaside City Cebu in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City.

BY MYBUS: You can take a FREE MyBus ride from/to BDO Fuente Osmena from 8:20am to 10:00pm. You can also ride any MyBus from SM City Cebu, Talisay, Mandaue City, Parkmall and any Cibus to get to and from SM Seaside city Cebu Drop-off point is at the City Wing Entrance.

BY CAR/GRAB/TAXI: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “SM Seaside City Cebu”. Parking space is free.

Step-by-Step Guide for Philippine Passport for New Applicants (2023)

You might be one of those Filipinos who have plans going abroad either for work or for leisure. Or simply, one of those Filipinos who just want a valid ID. Whatever your purpose is, here is a guide on how to apply for a Philippine passport for 2023. This guide is for those who have never tried applying (new applicants), both for adults and minors.

Step 1:

First thing you need to do is get an appointment via DFA’s website: https://www.passport.gov.ph/. Next, select “Schedule An Appointment” (Note: Individual for one (1) applicant, Group for two (2) or more applicants).

You will need to select the site of appointment (example: DFA Cebu, DFA Dumaguete) and the date and time of the appointment. Next, input all the details of the applicant(s) to proceed.

From here, you need to pay first before the appointment can be finalized. The following are the payment details depending on your application:

Processing Type:

  • Passport Fee – Php 950
  • PRF Fee – Php 250
  • Special Processing – Php 1,200

For the payment method, here are your options:

  * Over the counter – Php 1,200)

             -Passport Fee – Php 950

             -PRF Fee – Php 250

    * Debit/Credit Card/GCash – Php 1,250 (no delivery)

             -Passport Fee – Php 950

             -PRF Fee – Php 250

             -Convenience Fee – Php 50

    * Debit/Credit Card (GCASH) (PHP 1400) with delivery

             -Passport Fee – Php 950

             -PRF Fee – Php 250

             -Convenience Fee – Php 50

             -Delivery Fee – Php 150

After successfully paying, you will then receive a confirmation to the email address you used during the application process. You need to print the files consisting the confirmation/instructions, the passport application form and the two electronic receipts.

Photo from SM Seaside City Cebu (Official) Facebook Page

STEP 2:

On the date of your appointment, go to the selected DFA site. Bring the following on that date:

  • Original Copy of the PSA Live Birth Certificate
  • Original Copy of the PSA Marriage Contract (for married women)
  • Valid ID (for minors, valid ID of parents)
  • Printed files of confirmation/instructions, the passport application form and the two electronic receipts.
Photo from SM Seaside City Cebu (Official) Facebook Page

STEP 3:

Present all the documents to the DFA staff when it is your turn on the queue. Once the documents are checked and deemed complete, you will be then asked to input your data, take profile picture and biometrics. Once this process is done, you are technically registered with a valid Philippine passport.

Note: if on the day you show up with lacking documents, you are given thirty (30) days to complete your requirements from the date of the scheduled appointment. You still have to go back to the DFA to submit the lacking documents, or else, you will be tagged as a “no-show”; this means that you need to go over the online application and also, your payment will be forfeited.

DFA Cebu Sites

There are two (2) DFA sites in Cebu where you can process your passports:

  1. Pacific Mall in Mandaue City
  2. SM Seaside City Cebu in SRP, Cebu City

Note: Walk-ins are not allowed. You need to secure an online appointment first.

Philippine Airlines Now Offers Cebu to Ilocos Norte Direct Flights

Traveling from Cebu to Laoag, Ilocos Norte has just gotten easier.

Ilocos Norte | Photo from Unsplash

Laoag, Ilocos Norte, is a fantastic destination for those who love the sea and historical heritage sites. However, the travel is quite taxing. If you want to go from Cebu to Ilocos Norte, you have to fly to Manila and catch a flight to Laoag. You can also fly from Cebu to Clark and ride a bus to Laoag for 8 hours.

Last March, Provincial tourism officer Aianree Raquel announced they are collaborating with PAL for the Laoag to Cebu direct flights this May. The announcement of the new direct flight also connects Luzon and Central Visayas regarding tourism and business. 

Ilocos Norte | Photo from Unsplash

According to the Provincial Tourism Office, people have been inquiring about any flights from Laoag directly to Cebu. 

Be sure to follow Philippine Airlines’ official Facebook page for more information and updates. 

Experience the Finest Island Hopping in Mactan with Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours

The beautiful moments are found in the spaces between destinations; that’s the beauty of Island Hopping.

Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page

Hopping from one island to another should definitely be on your bucket list. Imagine seeing different shapes of beauty in one boat ride one day. You don’t have to travel far here in Cebu just to experience island hopping because the Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours is here to help you. 

The Finest Tour in Cebu

Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours offers fantastic tours on the different Islands of Cebu.

They have a deluxe boat package with island tours to Olanggo Island Fish Sanctuary, Caohagan Island, Hilutungan Island, and Sulpa Island. The Olanggo Island Hopping in Mactan is their most popular tour. The Island is known for the migrating birds that pass by it. 

Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page

The package includes a boat transfer from Mactan to Olanggo Island. Lunch is also included, which is a Pinoy Style Boodle-boodle. The Boodle-boodle includes Grilled Shrimp, Grilled Pork, Grilled Chicken, Seaweed Salad, Fresh Fruits, Rice or Puso, Sodas, and Water. 

The package also has an itinerary ready. Check out the itinerary below:

  • 9:00 AM – Call time at the Punta Engano Port beside Movenpick Hotel
  • 10:00 AM – Olanggo Island (Fish Sanctuary)
    • Fish feeding
    • Snorkeling
    • Swimming
  • 11:30 AM – Hilutungan Island
  • 12 NN – Lunch
  • 2 PM – Sulpa Island
  • 3 PM – Back to Port
  • 3:30 PM – End of Tour

The Deluxe Boat Package is good for a minimum of 15 pax and a maximum of 24 pax. 

A Boodle fight, fish feeding, and snorkeling? Count me in! Another great thing about getting this tour is that they prepare everything for you. So you won’t have to worry about where you’ll be in a day. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book a tour now. 

Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page
Photo from Cebu Finest Island Hopping Tours Facebook Page

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

TOUR RATES:

  • Deluxe Boat Package: ₱1,499 per person

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: 2nd-floor Extreme Aereopark, Parkmall, Mandaue City, Philippines

BY COMMUTE: From SM City, ride a 01K jeep (across APM Mall or near Sun Gold) going to Parkmall. Or ride 01K jeep from Emall.

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Parkmall” in Mandaue. Parking space is available.

Miss Universe PH Michelle Dee, Comes out as Bisexual

“I definitely identify myself as bisexual.”

Those are the words of Miss Universe PH Michelle Dee during an interview with MEGA Magazine. 

Photo from Michelle Dee on Instagram

This month, photos of a younger Michelle Dee, who sported a boyish look, circulated online. Because of this, people speculated that she was part of the LGBTQIA Community. According to Michelle Dee, she identified herself as bisexual ever since she can remember. 

“I am attracted to all forms of beauty, all shapes and sizes”, Dee also expressed. Michelle Dee’s Mom, Melanie Marquez, would often tease her because of her boying demeanor.

Photo from Michelle Dee on Instagram

Along with the allegations about Michelle’s orientation were rumors about her dating Kapuso Actress Mikee Quintos. However during an interview, Michelle revealed that they were good friends since high school and that they did not have any romantic relationship.

Michelle Dee is the second openly bisuexual Miss Universe Philippines winner. The first to come out was Beatrice Luigi Gomez, Miss Univerise Philippines 2021. 

Photo from Michelle Dee on Instagram

BEAUTY TAKES SHAPE: World-renowned personality Catriona Gray is the face of Belo Thermage FLX

Let Catriona Gray tell you a thing or two about shape-shifting. The elasticity of her career is the ultimate framework: from being a Filipino-Scottish model hailing from Australia, to Miss World Philippines 2016, to singer with a degree in Music Theory, to a black-belted Choi Kwang Do martial artist, to Miss Universe 2018, it’s clear that the world-renowned beauty has the innate ability to change the trajectory of her life at will.

This trajectory has led the beauty queen to where she is now: post-Miss Universe reign, a professional host, culture and youth advocate, and most recently, the face of Belo Medical Group’s Thermage FLX, one of Belo’s most cutting-edge treatments to lift and contour the skin. And as the universe continues to witness her timeless beauty, Catriona has been a long-time client of Thermage FLX, one of the most-trusted skin-tightening treatments that provides lifted and contoured skin without surgery and downtime.

Before and beyond her reign, Catriona’s always been an advocate for authentic and imperfect beauty, which makes her Thermage FLX ambassadorship an ideal match to her approach to staying beautiful—one that sees nothing wrong with improvement in pursuit of beauty that’s timless. And compared to other non-invasive lift and contouring procedures, an improved face or body shape is something Thermage FLX is famously known to deliver. Using a non-invasive, cutting-edge Radiofrequency (RF) technology, Thermage FLX penetrates deep into the innermost layers of the skin, stimulating the formation of new collagen that makes skin look tighter and more glowing.

This is why aside from Catriona Gray, other celebrities have been going to Belo to get their Thermage FLX treatment for years: Anne Curtis, Alden Richards, Korina Sanchez, and Kryz Uy are some of them, and from the younger set, Bella Racelis, Claudia Barretto, Ivana Alawi, and Iñigo Pascual have been going regularly for Thermage FLX treatments to get a headstart on skin tightening before aging happens.

Thermage FLX may be a well-known machine available to many clinics locally and internationally, but know that this process of lifting and contouring is best left in the hands of experts who deliver quality treatment. This is the key difference of Belo Thermage FLX: with Belo, years of training and experience precede its expert medical staff, and the addition of Belo Exosomes as a top-up treatment to Thermage FLX (also known as Belo Zoom Lift™) ensures maximum results that add to already excellent skin service.

Let Belo Thermage FLX be another reason to look up to Catriona as a beauty and life icon: a progressive outlook on beauty and the boldness to shape her life, career and skin—in any way she wants to.

For a consultation, visit the Belo Cebu Clinic at Taft East Gate across Landers or check

Belo’s official website here.

Sweet Nostalgia: 5 candies you will remember if you grew up in Cebu

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Naa pa ba ning mga candy karon? 

Tied to simple joys and innocent pleasures, our childhood memories define our younger years. For many Cebuanos who grew up in the 90s or earlier,nostalgia is – well, literally sweet. 

The memories we hold close to our hearts that we now often laugh at would have been incomplete without the delightful candies that filled our pockets and satisfied our sweet cravings. 

Let’s take a trip down memory lane as we explore five of these beloved candies that continue to evoke a sense of homesickness and fondness even to this day!

1. Mik-Mik

Starting off with a classic. Who remembers getting messy with these?

Mik-Mik, the powdered candy in bright red or brown sachets, was a staple for kids in the past. 

Photo from Maricris Marande

This delightful treat allowed you to pour the flavored powder directly into your mouth, creating a burst of sweetness that we all loved from powdered milk. 

I’m sure we can all agree that we’ve stained our shirts every time we had these, even if we used the tiny straw that came with it.

The small size and vibrant packaging made it a popular choice for sharing and trading with friends during recess or after school. 

2. Bobot

An old-fashioned favorite! I asked people what candy they miss most, and they often answered with this pack of candy-coated peanuts – Bobot.

The flavor is not actually different depending on what color you choose to eat first, but when I had these back then I would have sworn it was and that the yellow one tasted best. I’m sure I’m not alone.

Made by Highland Confectionery Mfg. Inc. in Mandaue City, this was all over Cebu. Sometimes when stores did not have coins for change, a small pack of Bobot with four nuts inside made it on our hands instead, but we didn’t complain.

Bobot candies were a hit among Cebuano kids, with its unique blend of tangy sweetness and a pleasant surprise inside.

3. Tootsie Roll

This list would not be complete without mentioning the sweet and indulgent Tootsie Roll! 

With its iconic cylindrical shape and faded brown wrapper despite its compact size, it was easily recognizable. A chocolatey goodness that we loved to share after recess.

Photo from Tootsie Roll Facebook Page

This is a classic American candy that found its way into the hearts of Cebuanos. We just somehow knew it was American – Tootsie Roll to a lot of us as kids was an experience in and of itself.  

With its chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor, Tootsie Roll was a favorite delight that brought joy to many children.

4. Tira-Tira

Oh we are going way back in time.

An archetypal candy – the crumpled colored wax paper inside bags meant you had a delicious

treat before you got home. Who also had a classmate that sold these during recess?

Tira-Tira is a buttercrunch toffee that came wrapped in the aforementioned in the shape of a thin, long tube. 

Did you know that its name was actually taken from a Spanish word for ‘pulling’? Because after the sugarcane juice is boiled, it goes through a process of pulling which is how the candy is formed.

5. Orange Swits

Orange Swits, another favorite! A tangy and zesty candy that is a burst of orange was beloved by Cebuano kids. 

Photo from Lazada

Different from the candies mentioned above, this one is a chewy one! Straight to the point. These small sugar-coated jellies offered a strong citrus flavor that kept us coming back for more. 

Up to this day, people still really search for it. Where can you get Orange Swits now in Cebu?

“Vintage” candies from Mik-Mik to Orange Swits hold a special place in the hearts of Cebuanos. If you find yourself yearning for a taste of the past, it’s worth exploring whether these beloved treats are still available. While time may have moved on, these candies can transport you back to your childhood, allowing you to relive the sweetness of those cherished moments. So, go ahead, search for these candies, and indulge in the sweet nostalgia that they bring! 

AirAsia Will Soon Offer Flights to the Maldives

You can now add Maldives to your bucket list!

The Maldives is one of the ultimate vacation destinations globally. And many of us dream of waking up to the beautiful aquamarine waters. This dream of ours might soon become a reality, thanks to AirAsia. 

Maldives | Photo from Unsplash

AirAsia Philippines will soon offer fly-thru flights to the Maldives via Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The travel period will be from June 6 to December 14, 2023. However, as of date, AirAsia still has not released any updates on the prices and schedules.

The Beauty of the Maldives

When people ask, “What’s one of the most famous destination spots in the world?”, best believe many will say, “The Maldives.” 

Maldives | Photo from Unsplash

The Maldives boasts its pristine beaches and its beautiful azure waters. From food to its unique and vibrant culture, the Maldives has a lot of great things to offer. It is also home to many resorts and islands where tourists can enjoy a tropical island getaway.

In the Maldives, happiness knows no bounds. It is a place of bliss and the ultimate escape to where the sun sets beautifully with the sea. 

Keep your eyes peeled for AirAsia’s updates regarding the AirAsia Fly-thru flights to the Maldives, and turn your dreams into reality. 

Maldives | Photo from Unsplash