Who would’ve thought a little rainbow magic goes along way? From heartfelt stories who are owning their truth in a safe and inclusive space to queer creators popping off on TikTok, fiercely fabulous, and inclusive creators make up a more safer platform for expression and diversity.
Ain’t A Filipina Winnah for Nothing
From TV and advertising producer to drag queen icon, Marina Summers’ glow-up is all about self-expression and resilience. She has slayed the runway of Drag Race Philippines and captivated audiences on RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs. the World. Marina’s rise to fame is a pure inspiration to the members of the LGBTQIA+ community, making them unleash their creativity and live their truth
Her viral TikTok moments have made her a digital famous, proving creativity has no limits. “TikTok gave me my first million views and viral moments,” she shares. “It helped in cementing the idea of Marina Summers, especially the brand online. It democratizes creativity and inspires the whole world to discover their artistic expression.”
Through this platform, Marina serves up glamorous performances mixed with meme-worthy comedy content. For her, TikTok is a powerful platform that empowers queer Filipinos, giving them bigger stages to shine. “It proves that not only are we worthy of the spotlight, but we are also admired,” Marina proudly asserts.
All hail, Le Queen!
Eva Le Queen’s journey from corporate hustle to the dazzling world of drag is a total glow-up story. Her rise was next-level when she rocked the first season of Drag Race Philippines and slayed as first runner-up at Singapore’s Drag It Out All-Stars—all within four months of her drag debut!
“During the pandemic, the world of drag queens closed down,” Eva recalls. “We started #KeepDragAlive and brought drag online through TikTok. It provided access to many talented individuals who wanted to explore drag.”
TikTok became Eva’s stage to share tutorials and transformation videos, helping grow the drag community across the Philippines. “TikTok provided access to all queens, all kids who wanted to take part in the art form,” Eva emphasizes. ” “It’s high time to do drag in the PH, and TikTok has been instrumental in bridging that gap.”
Baklarbershop!
In the Philippines, old-school gender norms have always decided where you get your hair done: salons for the ladies, barbershops for the men. This binary vibe has left a lot of our trans and queer community feeling uncomfortable, unwelcome, and uncertain..
Paul Sumayao is out here saying “Ang buhok ay walang kasarian” (Hair has no gender). He’s all about self-expression through style, making sure everyone gets a haircut that makes them feel like a million bucks.Consequently, he co-founded Barbierro, the Philippines’ first-ever queer barbershop, with a mission to create safe spaces for the queer community through top-notch grooming services. TikTok was a game-changer in spreading his message and connecting with a wider audience
“Through TikTok, we found out that many of our transmen and lesbian brothers and sisters felt ostracized during haircuts,” Paul shares. “TikTok helped us hear their stories and provided a platform to engage with them.”
For Paul, Barbierro Barbershop is way more than just a business—it’s a legacy of acceptance and empowerment. “Establishing a safe space called Barbierro Barbershop is our way of leaving something behind for young queer kids everywhere,” Paul affirms. “And with TikTok’s support, we can reach even more people and let them know that #YouBelongHere.”
Queer Safe Space
Love, acceptance, and inclusivity have been advocated by Roanne and Tina, the dynamic couple of Queer Safe Spaces Inc. Their experience on TikTok has given a platform to marginalized perspectives, inspiring projects like the Queer Prom in partnership with TikTok Philippines. “Thanks to TikTok, we feel heard and seen,” Roanne says. The platform has made them feel heard and visible, adds Roanne. Building a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines is their primary objective.
Tina and Roanne possess a profound compassion of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, having faced their own difficulties as a queer couple. This empathy motivated them to establish Queer Safe Spaces Inc., committed to serving the LGBTQIA+ population in the Philippines and their supporters by providing a safe atmosphere.
Their latest endeavor, Queer Prom: You Belong Here, represents more than a celebration—it stands as a fundraising initiative aimed at establishing a physical safe space center for the Filipino LGBTQIA+ community.
“We hope that through initiatives like the Queer Prom, we can provide a physical institution that addresses the diverse needs of our community,” Tina explains. “Because everyone deserves to feel validated and loved, and TikTok has been instrumental in amplifying that message.”
Their partnership with TikTok Philippines has significantly expanded their reach and bolstered their advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights. Through innovative campaigns and strategic partnerships, they have advanced their message of love and acceptance.
Written by | Pathrice Irez
