For the longest time, the LGBTQIA+ community has fought tooth and nail to proudly raise their flag, which kept being shot down. The struggle to achieve freedom came with the loss of beautiful lives due to extreme discrimination, cruel torture, and barbaric killings. It was not until the Stonewall uprising in 1969 that the community started fiercely resisting and finding their voice, stepping into the daylight, and taking the battle to the streets.
Yet the fight is far from over. For ages, members of this minority group kept on receiving punishment– all because they chose to exist.
And Filipinos were among their harshest critics.
It is not a surprise that the Philippines is a conservative country. Most Filipinos are so reluctant to change and are firm upholders of traditional and ill-formed beliefs. Although it has been recognized as one of the most gay-friendly nations in the world, the frequent mockery and ridicule of the community prove otherwise. The fine line between acceptance and tolerance seems to be blurry in the Philippines, yet the fight for the liberty of the group ensues.
Meanwhile, their drag persona is their complete opposite. While they choose to sit in the corner, they have that chance to take up the spotlight. They exist loudly and make sure that everyone can feel their presence. With their vibrant wigs, spellbinding looks, and haute couture, they are a sight to behold. Where they lack, they also fulfill. They are bolder, braver– someone who is unafraid to take risks and is willing to do whatever it takes to shine without empowering anyone else. Like a chandelier, they always ensure to light up the room, hence their stage names.
Drag has always been present in their lives. As they describe drag as “performative, political, and power that is rooted in passion..” Meanwhile, they recall that a drag journey began as something just for fun, gradually escalating as a hobby and ultimately leading to self-expression: “It was a safe place for them to express what they felt. It was a therapy in a way.”
Drsg has existed in the country for years now, but it has only ever been acknowledged for the purpose of entertainment. Later it helps spread the misconception that Philippine drag is merely a low-quality type of comedy, which most of them disagrees with. “Drag is fun, but it is not just for fun. Queen, not clowns, and drag is not just for clout.” For them, drag is a protest. “From the moment they get in drag, they are already fighting for something; it is okay to be loud, it is okay to be colorful, as long as they are doing it for self-expression.”
Because of the Philippines’ history of dealing with the LGBTQIA+ community, it can be a preconceived notion that drag culture will never thrive in the country and that its existence will be short-lived. This, however, was proven otherwise when Drag Race Philippines made its debut as a reality competition television series on various streaming platforms. With the now loosened conservative convictions, thousands of people stream the show with utmost zeal and enthusiasm. Finally, after many years of harrowing difficulties and lack of opportunities and representation, many are resolute in keeping the drag culture alive.
It is a relief that the growing awareness and acceptance of its presence seems unstoppable. The Philippine drag now has stronger representation and career prospects than they seem. However, it still needs more appreciation and support; it demands recognition not only as a form of entertainment but also as a form of art.
“Drag is hard. It is a big investment. We think that the Philippines is still in the process of accepting drag culture, but the situation for us now is much better than before. Although some people still think that you won’t get anything from it, there are still many who genuinely say: I’m amazed by what you do. Padayon,” as they expressed.
It is heartbreaking that many lives had to be lost to gain the freedom the community enjoys today. While there are still a lot of prejudiced beliefs to unlearn, it is comforting to know that the country is becoming more progressive and forward-thinking. It is one step closer to making the Philippines a better and safer place for the LGBTQIA+ community.
In fact, losing the war against drag might just be our country’s greatest success.
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