Filipino artists are reclaiming PH's queer mythology at this cultural fest

In the Philippines, there is a long history for queer people, and we can trace its roots all the way back to our pre-colonization era. Many people not know this but one significant proof is our own mythology. 

Pre-colonial Filipino has always been accepting and reverent of trans women & accepts homosexuality in our gods back in the day. Even research group The Aswang Project backs this up, saying that the ancient Philippines had much more liberal views than we see in modern society. 

From Deities to gods, Philippines mythology is indeed rich with queer presence that's why some young queer artists decided to show all of that in the Southeast Asia Queer Cultural Festival 2021: "Be/Longings", a virtual festival that reclaims, reimagines, and insists on LGBTIQ presence.  

Filipino artists Renz Botero, Natu Xantino, and Ram Botero decided to highlight the gender fluidity throughout Philippine mythology by reimagining queer deities and gods like the star-crossed lovers Bulan and Sidapa, the Sirena, and Oryol, the princess-turned-snake woman.

Scroll through below and see some of their stunning works featuring our deities and queer gods. 

Babaylan

Bulan

Makapatag-Malaon

Sidapa

It features more than 30 works, performances, and events by LGBTIQ activists and artists from all over Southeast Asia. Catch the rest of the mythical stories and stunning exhibit displays at the cultural fest's website until Mar. 13.

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