April 28, 2009
April 20, 2009
Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act is unconstitutional!
The Constitutional Court of Korea must accommodate the military court's request for a legal judgment on the unconstitutionality of Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act!
Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act: "Those who have engaged in sodomy and/or other indecent act shall be imprisoned for 1 year or less"
In August 2008, the Normal Military Court of the 22nd Infantry Division of the Korean Army requested the Constitutional Court for a legal judgment on the unconstitutionality of Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act because it could violate equal rights, the right to sexual self-determination, and the right of privacy. Although half a year has already passed, the Constitutional Court has postponed and delayed this issue. Judging that Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act promotes homophobia and violates equal rights and the right to sexual self-determination, the Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation to the Military has initiated activities to urge the Constitutional Court for a judgment on its unconstitutionality. The anachronistic Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act can't completely resolve sexual violence in the military. Instead, it is the time to strengthen policy and education to eradicate homophobia. The Constitutional Court mustn't repeat the mistake it made in 2002 in an examination of a petition regarding the constitutionality of the same Article 92: "The said article must exist to maintain the sexual health of the military family." We strongly hope that many will take part in and support our activities to urge a judgment on the unconstitutionality of Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act.
The easiest way to take part in the campaign:
Completing a petition to the Constitutional Court
1) Download, print out, complete, and sign the petition form attached above (either of the two files above).
2) Individuals may also create their own petitions.
3) Mail or fax the completed petition to the Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation
to the Military (see address below).
4) Finally, actively encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to participate!
Why must Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act be abolished?
First, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act promotes homophobia and discrimination. Included in Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act, the Korean word for sodomy denigrates a particular sexual act by likening it to an act performed on an animal. This hateful language designates as an "indecent act" even a consensual sexual act, as if homosexuality itself were but a type of sexual violence. Indeed, the National Human Rights Commission of Korea has pointed out in "2007-2011 Recommendation Proposal on National Action Plans for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights; NAPs on Human Rights" that
the same article revealed discrimination and prejudice against homosexuality and recommended the Ministry of National Defense to reform this law. No term or name used in laws must reflect prejudice and preconception. The Korean word for sodomy in this article must be replaced by a more neutral and objective word or removed altogether.
Second, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act can violate equal rights and individual privacy.Even when the special nature of the military is taken into consideration, the criminalization and punishment even of relations based on mutual consent can't be justified constitutionally. If two male soldiers engage in sexual acts in a private space under mutual consent on their leaves, should they be punished for it? It's preposterous indeed for the parties involved to be punished because no one has been harmed, rank hasn't been used unjustly, and force hasn't been used for coercion. However, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act makes all of this possible. In fact, in 1999, a similar case was punished based on Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act. However, just as consensual sexual acts between members of different sexes aren't seen as "indecent acts," consensual sexual acts between members of the same sex mustn't be seen as "indecent acts." Everyone has a right to sexual self-determination. No one must be discriminated against just because of a different sexual orientation.
Third, the ambiguous regulation in Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act is inappropriate for determining whether an individual is innocent or guilty. It's nearly impossible to understand and accept which acts are forbidden and which aren't from the expression "sodomy and/or other indecent act." In other words, this article can be applied to diverse situations because it completely fails to provide the criteria for judgment including the agent and the other party, types of acts, location of the acts, and consent. Consequently, it becomes difficult accurately to judge the innocence or guilt of the parties involved so that it is very likely for the applier of the law to interpret this article arbitrarily at his or her discretion.
Please fax or mail the petition to:
Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation to the Military
302 Myodong Building, 183 Myodong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea 110-370
Fax: 82-2-744-7916
http://chingusai.net
tel:02-745-7942
fax:02-744-7916
Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act: "Those who have engaged in sodomy and/or other indecent act shall be imprisoned for 1 year or less"
In August 2008, the Normal Military Court of the 22nd Infantry Division of the Korean Army requested the Constitutional Court for a legal judgment on the unconstitutionality of Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act because it could violate equal rights, the right to sexual self-determination, and the right of privacy. Although half a year has already passed, the Constitutional Court has postponed and delayed this issue. Judging that Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act promotes homophobia and violates equal rights and the right to sexual self-determination, the Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation to the Military has initiated activities to urge the Constitutional Court for a judgment on its unconstitutionality. The anachronistic Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act can't completely resolve sexual violence in the military. Instead, it is the time to strengthen policy and education to eradicate homophobia. The Constitutional Court mustn't repeat the mistake it made in 2002 in an examination of a petition regarding the constitutionality of the same Article 92: "The said article must exist to maintain the sexual health of the military family." We strongly hope that many will take part in and support our activities to urge a judgment on the unconstitutionality of Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act.The easiest way to take part in the campaign:
Completing a petition to the Constitutional Court
1) Download, print out, complete, and sign the petition form attached above (either of the two files above).
2) Individuals may also create their own petitions.
3) Mail or fax the completed petition to the Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation
to the Military (see address below).
4) Finally, actively encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to participate!
Why must Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act be abolished?
First, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act promotes homophobia and discrimination. Included in Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act, the Korean word for sodomy denigrates a particular sexual act by likening it to an act performed on an animal. This hateful language designates as an "indecent act" even a consensual sexual act, as if homosexuality itself were but a type of sexual violence. Indeed, the National Human Rights Commission of Korea has pointed out in "2007-2011 Recommendation Proposal on National Action Plans for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights; NAPs on Human Rights" that
the same article revealed discrimination and prejudice against homosexuality and recommended the Ministry of National Defense to reform this law. No term or name used in laws must reflect prejudice and preconception. The Korean word for sodomy in this article must be replaced by a more neutral and objective word or removed altogether.
Second, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act can violate equal rights and individual privacy.Even when the special nature of the military is taken into consideration, the criminalization and punishment even of relations based on mutual consent can't be justified constitutionally. If two male soldiers engage in sexual acts in a private space under mutual consent on their leaves, should they be punished for it? It's preposterous indeed for the parties involved to be punished because no one has been harmed, rank hasn't been used unjustly, and force hasn't been used for coercion. However, Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act makes all of this possible. In fact, in 1999, a similar case was punished based on Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act. However, just as consensual sexual acts between members of different sexes aren't seen as "indecent acts," consensual sexual acts between members of the same sex mustn't be seen as "indecent acts." Everyone has a right to sexual self-determination. No one must be discriminated against just because of a different sexual orientation.
Third, the ambiguous regulation in Article 92 of the Military Criminal Act is inappropriate for determining whether an individual is innocent or guilty. It's nearly impossible to understand and accept which acts are forbidden and which aren't from the expression "sodomy and/or other indecent act." In other words, this article can be applied to diverse situations because it completely fails to provide the criteria for judgment including the agent and the other party, types of acts, location of the acts, and consent. Consequently, it becomes difficult accurately to judge the innocence or guilt of the parties involved so that it is very likely for the applier of the law to interpret this article arbitrarily at his or her discretion.
Please fax or mail the petition to:
Network for Reporting the Violation of the Human Rights of Sexual Minorities in Relation to the Military
302 Myodong Building, 183 Myodong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea 110-370
Fax: 82-2-744-7916
http://chingusai.net
tel:02-745-7942
fax:02-744-7916
(Notice: This is a forwarded email to me and I feel the urge of posting it here to have the appropriate response from the readers to abolish these kinds of laws violating the human rights of individuals according to their gender identities Thank you!)
April 1, 2009
Hanggang Dito na Lamang at Maraming Salamat: Term Ender
De La Salle University’s 3rd Term for School Year 2008-2009 is not yet over but I would like to create my term ender article as early as now. I might not have the time when the finals week comes in and I have to review for two (2) comprehensive final examination in Microbiology and Cell Biology (tough ones I have for this term).I felt so awkward when I went back to school. Siyempre I had to adjust from being an employee back to being a student again. There was even a time when I wanted to return to my previous work because I miss my colleagues so much, and, also, I am so dependent, once again, to my parents. Some people would think that I am rich because I left my job to study, which is so wrong; I am living with Php.70.00 per day and I had to sell my cellphone just to purchase my textbook in Microbio and Cellbio subjects, I don’t need it anyway. Yeah right, I had the money for my tuition fee alone, na kasya sa 4 subjects. Haha. Masarap magtrabaho kasi kumikita ka ng pera, pero kailangang magbalik sa pag-aaral para magka-diploma.
At first, I was an outcast in each subject I enrolled in because they are block sections. Pero ang lola niyo ma-PR. I made new friends, specially Trish and my former high schoolmate Abby who made my return to DLSU a nice memory to ponder. Aside from them, I became close to some, but not all, of my classmates in my subjects. Wow, siyempre bakla eh. PR dito. PR dun. Naging close ko sa lahat yung mga kapwa ko "iregular". Thank goodness, there are no homophobic people in my classes. Pero there are some topics in a certain subject that deems homosexuality as immorality, saan pa, eh di sa Religion! Nagtaka ka pa. Hehehe.
I love being a student again. I had to read. Read more. And then, I have to read over and over again. This is a habit that I had to recover since the things that I have to browse before are work related like visa application, medical certificates, and even fake credentials submitted my applicants. Now, I feel the challenge of my academic life and I still have one year to adventure with by reading my reference materials.
Microbiology & Cell Biology
These are my most serious subjects. Obvious ba? Name pa lang di ba! Dito ako nagsusunog ng kilay. Pero impressively, I thought I lost my passion for Biology, but now, my neurons are craving for more mental stimulation. Echos. I can’t comment more on these courses because I can only speak of technical terms and critical life processes taught in the class. Well, the professors often assume that the students should know the concepts on Biochemistry, Botany2, or Histology, well; I don’t have those subjects in my flowchart because my degree is not a pre-med! I am a future teacher, a high school teacher. Hahaha. So I had to adapt to this kind of teaching method, well, what do you know, I’m not just passing these two subjects, I am one of the highest scorer when it comes to quizzes and long exams. Echos ulit!
RELSFOR (Religion: Christian Social Teaching)
This subject teaches us to have an advocacy for the poor. Hmmm. Ironically, I belong to the mass and I had to debate on the issues such as the main causes of poverty. Kailangang ipagtanggol no, ang iginigiit ba eh nagcocommit ng sins ang mga mahihirap dahil nagnanakaw sila. Excuse me, nagnanakaw sila dahil naghihirap sila dahil wala silang makain due to extreme poverty caused by improper allocation of wealth by the greedy and corrupt people who are in power! However, there are three incidents that occurred in the classroom strikes me the most during my term and it is a about my gender identity. The first one was when we were discussing about sins and evils when my professor declared that having a pre-marital relationship (I think it included sex) between two men is much graver than a man and a woman couple having a relationship before being married. No offense to my prof, I still love her but not the topic. Second was when I had to erase the word homosexuality TWICE and replaced it with adultery and murder in my two of my group mate’s paper to the list of crimes that needs corporal punishment in the Old Testament. Mamamatay tao ba ang mga bakla para ihelera sa abortion?!? Lastly, when a group reporting on one of the catholic encyclicals and sited that HOMOSEXUALITY IS ONE OF THE CULTURAL SINS. My professor commented, “kawawa naman sila, bakit nailagay dyan”, then the reporter answered, “because it is written in the encyclical that it is a cultural sin”. What I did was I acted as if I heard nothing, I continued reading “KUNG PAANO KO PINATAY SI DIANA ROSS” while placing the book in front ofmy face, making the picture of a GAY impersonator visible to the reporter. Deadma. Talk to Diano Ross! Charing.
LITERA (Philippine Literature)
I thought that this would be the most boring subject that I would have but
contrary to this previous belief, Philippine Literature under Mr. Genaro Gojo-Cruz is a very empowering subject for me. First of all I was the class clown in this class. I would crack some jokes when people are reporting or even when we are viewing films, siyempre tatawa sila and those simple giggles and laughter are music to my ears. Ito naman ang silbi ko sa mundo, ang magpasaya ng tao. And in this subject was my first report after three years and I had to inculcate the remaining knowledge I have in teaching which eventually lead to regaining my self confidence. There are two readings that I love the most and these are “Kung Paano ko Pinatay si Diano Ross” by Rody Vera and “Hanggang Dito na Lamang at Maraming Salamat” written by Orlando Nadres. Madaming lines na sobrang ganda sa "hanggang dito na lamang", and gustong gusto ko ang character ni Julie, ang totoong pangalan ay JULIUS CEAZAR AQUINO, biruin mo, same pa kami ng surname! Both literary works discusses homosexuality and the struggle for acceptance. BONGGA! NAKARELATE AKO. Siyempre best in recitation ang lola niyo. Napag-usapan kasi lahat gaya ng mga GAY LINGO wherein bentang benta ang word na LOTLOT AND FRIENDS.I love my Literature class. Sobra!
Lastly, I voted for Vernon of Santugon for VP Activities in the Student Council Election. He is gay and unfortunately he lost. I love his speech that whatever he is (pertaining to his gender identity) it is the leadership he offers to his fellow students that matters. I wanted him to win, sobra. Last year a gay candidate run but eventually lost to the incoming student council president. Did they lose because of what they are? But how come Simoun Ferrer won the presidency? I wasn't there so I can't tell. I did not vote straight despite of my political affiliation. Let them condemn and hate me for my vote yet I will stand for what I think is right and to conform is something I can not do. I am now apolitical.
Three years. Yeah. That was a long time of waiting. But it paid off. Because my three years of being out from the academe brought fort a new chapter in my life and that is my enlightenment which gave me a new purpose to live for. And that is to be of help to my people. People like me who needed guidance and comfort upon venturing to the fierce world of uncertainty and unacceptance and hoping that one day, alam mo na, cliché na nga toh eh, tanggapin na ng buong mundo kung ano ako. Kung ano tayo. Yun lang. Tatlong taon akong nawala sa school, and pagbalik ko, hindi na ako ang Raffy na naglilihim kung ano ako! Ang ako na hindi nasabi kay Louis Pieraz na minsan sa buhay ko naminahal ko siya dahil wala akong lakas ng loob at pilit na isinusulat sa mga tulang kinimkim na lamang sa limot. Nakakaloka! Tanggap ko na sa sarili ko kung ano ako. Tanggapin man ako o hindi ng lipunang ginagalawan ko.
Hanggang dito na lamang at maraming salamat!
March 24, 2009
Pope's visit to Cameroon raises questions about gay and lesbian rights
Source: http://www.fridae.com/newsfeatures/article.php?articleid=2430&viewarticle=1&searchtype=all
March 24, 2009
Pope's visit to Cameroon raises questions about gay and lesbian rights
By Amnesty International
Since the Holy See had said that it advocates against criminal penalties against homosexual persons, Amnesty International attempted to engage the Pope while on his first pilgrimage to Africa.
On his first trip to Africa last week, Pope Benedict XVI visits Cameroon, a country that criminalizes same-sex sexual relations.
Amnesty International has asked Pope Benedict during his visit, to urge the government of Cameroon to eradicate discrimination based on sexual orientation.
A senior Cameroonian Roman Catholic Church leader was reported by local media in December 2005, to have publicly denounced homosexuality. Before and since, many have been persecuted.
The Holy See said at a meeting of the UN General Assembly in December 2008 that it "continues to advocate that every sign of unjust discrimination towards homosexual persons should be avoided, and urges States to do away with criminal penalties against them."
"The Pope should take the important opportunity of this visit to Cameroon to make clear that the Holy See abhors any attacks or persecution of people based on their sexual orientation, and call on the government to decriminalize homosexuality," said Tawanda Hondora, Deputy Director of Amnesty International's Africa Programme.
Over the past three years, Amnesty International has documented the arrest and detention of several dozen young men and women, some of whom have been sentenced to prison terms and fines for allegedly engaging in consensual same-sex sexual relations.
In a typical case, two men were arrested on 16 August 2007 by gendarmes in Yaoundé, accused of engaging in same-sex sexual relations. The suspects were held at Nlongkak gendarmerie until 31 August 2007, when they were transferred to Kondengui prison.
While in custody, the detainees were subjected to anal examinations in an attempt by the authorities to establish if they had been engaged in sexual acts.
The men appeared in court on 23 November 2007 and pleaded not guilty to engaging in same-sex sexual relations. The court found them guilty of same-sex acts on 13 March 2008 and sentenced them to six months' imprisonment and a fine of 25,000 CFA Francs (approximately $US44). They were released soon after their trial because they had already spent more than six months in custody.
Twelve young women were permanently excluded from a college in Douala in March 2006, for their alleged same-sex sexual relations. Amnesty International is concerned that the girls were expelled solely because of their sexual orientation, depriving the girls of their right to education.
Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have made numerous appeals to the Cameroonian authorities, religious organizations and the media to uphold, respect and protect the human rights of all people in Cameroon, regardless of their sexual orientation.
On Thursday, Pope Benedict will be meeting with members of the Special Council for Africa of the Synod of Bishops at the Apostolic Nunciature of Yaoundé.
"Dozens of Cameroonian men and women have been detained solely for their actual or perceived engagement in consensual same-sex sexual relations – this is simply unacceptable. We hope that the Pope will make this clear to the government and the Church’s leaders and many followers in Cameroon during his visit," said Tawanda Hondora.
March 24, 2009
Pope's visit to Cameroon raises questions about gay and lesbian rights
By Amnesty International
Since the Holy See had said that it advocates against criminal penalties against homosexual persons, Amnesty International attempted to engage the Pope while on his first pilgrimage to Africa. On his first trip to Africa last week, Pope Benedict XVI visits Cameroon, a country that criminalizes same-sex sexual relations.
Amnesty International has asked Pope Benedict during his visit, to urge the government of Cameroon to eradicate discrimination based on sexual orientation.
A senior Cameroonian Roman Catholic Church leader was reported by local media in December 2005, to have publicly denounced homosexuality. Before and since, many have been persecuted.
The Holy See said at a meeting of the UN General Assembly in December 2008 that it "continues to advocate that every sign of unjust discrimination towards homosexual persons should be avoided, and urges States to do away with criminal penalties against them."
"The Pope should take the important opportunity of this visit to Cameroon to make clear that the Holy See abhors any attacks or persecution of people based on their sexual orientation, and call on the government to decriminalize homosexuality," said Tawanda Hondora, Deputy Director of Amnesty International's Africa Programme.
Over the past three years, Amnesty International has documented the arrest and detention of several dozen young men and women, some of whom have been sentenced to prison terms and fines for allegedly engaging in consensual same-sex sexual relations.
In a typical case, two men were arrested on 16 August 2007 by gendarmes in Yaoundé, accused of engaging in same-sex sexual relations. The suspects were held at Nlongkak gendarmerie until 31 August 2007, when they were transferred to Kondengui prison.
While in custody, the detainees were subjected to anal examinations in an attempt by the authorities to establish if they had been engaged in sexual acts.
The men appeared in court on 23 November 2007 and pleaded not guilty to engaging in same-sex sexual relations. The court found them guilty of same-sex acts on 13 March 2008 and sentenced them to six months' imprisonment and a fine of 25,000 CFA Francs (approximately $US44). They were released soon after their trial because they had already spent more than six months in custody.
Twelve young women were permanently excluded from a college in Douala in March 2006, for their alleged same-sex sexual relations. Amnesty International is concerned that the girls were expelled solely because of their sexual orientation, depriving the girls of their right to education.
Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have made numerous appeals to the Cameroonian authorities, religious organizations and the media to uphold, respect and protect the human rights of all people in Cameroon, regardless of their sexual orientation.
On Thursday, Pope Benedict will be meeting with members of the Special Council for Africa of the Synod of Bishops at the Apostolic Nunciature of Yaoundé.
"Dozens of Cameroonian men and women have been detained solely for their actual or perceived engagement in consensual same-sex sexual relations – this is simply unacceptable. We hope that the Pope will make this clear to the government and the Church’s leaders and many followers in Cameroon during his visit," said Tawanda Hondora.
March 10, 2009
Philippines Ends Ban on Gays in Military
Source:
http://www.365gay.com/news/philippines-ends-ban-on-gays-in-military/
(Manila) The Philippines has become the second country in a week to officially end the ban on gays serving in the military.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines said that the decision shows the military has a zero tolerance for discrimination among its ranks. But it also warned that despite allowing gays to serve openly, overt homosexual behavior will still not be tolerated.
“Once inside the organization, they have to live by a code of ethics and they have to observe decorum if they want to remain as members of the Armed Forces,” military spokesperson Ernesto Torres told The Manila Times.
To mark the change the military this week began a recruiting drive in the LGBT community.
On Monday, Argentina announced that it had abandoned the gay ban, part of a sweeping military reform act that included the way members of the armed forces are put on trial.
The issue of gays serving opening in the military has roiled the US armed services.
On Monday, legislation to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was filed in the House of Representatives.
While previous attempts to repeal the law were bogged down when Republicans controlled Congress, there is renewed hope the measure will pass the Democratically-controlled Congress.
President Barack Obama has said that he supports repeal of the ban.
March 5, 2009
An Assault and Insult To My Ethnicity
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/downe/
Common Signs Nga Mga Kapampangan (Except yung Konting Matitino)
Wed Mar 4, 2009 5:36 pm
1. Nangunguna sa kalaswaan
2. Nagunguna sa nakawan (pati susi papaduplicate), maski brief ipapanakaw or
nanakawin
3. Nagunguna sa bentahan droga
4. Nangunguna sa mga pampatulog at set ups
5. Baligtad underwear pag may operations.
6. Walang nagpapakita ng sinampay kasi puro nakaw damit
7. Nakatingin sa kisame pag umiihi
8. Closed mga bahay
9. Walang lumalabas
10. Me singsing sa huling paa
11. Mahilig sa mga tattoo sa me paanan.
12. Grupo kung lumakad
13. PURO LEFT SIDE PARATI NG BUILDING OR LUGAR. LEFT SIDE DIN NG URINAL MGA IHI.
14. Nagpapali-palit mga rooms.
15. Marumi ang kalat pinagkainan
16. Hindi patas kung lumaban
17. Magaling sa sabwatan
18. Puro kins lang tatanggap
19. Mga tamad magtrabaho
20. Parating late
21. Puro hon at hon-deal system di pwede ng hard work.
22. Walang goal sa buhay, puro sex lang kaya napapag-iwanan. Ayan nangyari ke
Pimentel, binalot lang publicity pero tanga pa rin hangang ngayon.
Even if you guys have disputes against Koko Pimentel and to whatever he did, never generalize our ethnic group with all of those negative traits that you mentioned above. Try reviewing the title of the message, it has the phrase "Except yung konting matitino". And what does that connote? There are only a handful of good Kapampangans and majority are criminals, perverts, back fighters, thieves, etc.? This is very discriminating and an unjust way of describing us, the Kapampangans. Social labeling sucks. And what's next? Commit genocide upon us?
You don't have the rights to ruin the dignity of one group just because of the mistakes done by a few people. No one does. The evil encompassed by the specific person is not the evil of the whole group where he belongs. This is damaging OUR, in reference to the Kapampangans, institution, and culture.
Despite the fact that we have geographical distance and different dialects spoken, we must not forget that we are all Filipinos and are living in one country as one nation. This is one of the reason why our country is not developing and can not push the progress that we are dreaming of. My friends, there is a cold war within our very own system and leads to hatred and prejudice from one ethnic group, to another.
I am gay and I am a PROUD KAPAMPANGAN!
Mayap a aldo kekayu ngan!
February 22, 2009
Forum urges Asia to decriminalise homosexuality
AFP - Saturday, February 21(Source: http://ph.news.yahoo.com/afp/20090221/tls-hongkong-health-aids-asia-aeafa1b.html)
HONG KONG (AFP) - - A three-day forum in Hong Kong on a growing HIV/AIDS epidemic in Asia ended Friday with delegates calling for countries in the region to follow China's lead in decriminalising homosexuality
Beijing's decision in 2001 had helped to minimise the spread of HIV/AIDS in China, Zhen Li, from the Tong Zhi awareness group, told the forum.
"Between 2005 and 2008 China made huge progress (in raising awareness of HIV/AIDS among homosexuals) in addition to working with civil society as partners," Li said.
However, elsewhere in Asia "highly prohibitive legal frameworks" against homosexuality were aiding the spread of an HIV epidemic among homosexual men, the forum's organisers said in a statement.
"As long as these laws are in effect it will push people into dark places," Li told a news conference at the end of the forum.
Edmund Settle, from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), said there were several Asian countries which had yet to follow China's example and that they tended to be former British colonies.
As an example, he cited India, where there is currently a court case challenging the laws banning homosexuality.
Wong Ka-Hing, a consultant in special preventive programmes for Hong Kong's Department of Health, said that the city's HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns would continue to prioritise young homosexuals.
"In Hong Kong we are facing a rising epidemic among men having sex with men... that is why we have tried to target scarce resources towards the most vulnerable sections of the community," Wong said.
The forum was jointly held by Hong Kong's Department of Health, the World Health Organization, the UNDP and the Joint UN Programmes on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).
February 11, 2009
Ang Paghihirap ng Bayan Ni Juan
Minsan, ako’y naglalakad sa kahabaan ng Taft Avenue sa Pasay. Napansin ko ang mga tahanan na nakahelera sa gilid ng kalsada. Sadyang makulay ang mga bahay na nito kahit dikit dikit. May asul, may pink, at may berde. Sadyang napakatingkad ng mga pinturang ginamit. Katabi ng mga nasabing bahay ay mga nagtataasang gusali at isang primyadong paaralan. Ako’y naengganyong silipin kung sino sino ang mga nakatira dito. Nagulat ako sa aking napagmasdan. Ito pala ay isang squatters area. Sinubukan kong umakyat sa ika-apat na palabag ng isang establisyimento na kaharap ng nasabing komunidad. Tumambad sa akin ang mga kinakalawang na bubong. Tinakpan lamang ng gobyerno sa pamamagitan ng mga pintura ang katotohanan na dukha talaga ang mga nakatira sa mga nasabing barung-barong at pinagmukhang disente ang kanilang mga tahanan. Ang bayan ni Juan, sa kabila ng pagsasabi na tayo’y isang maunlad na bansa, karamihan pa rin ng mga mamamayan nito o tinatayang 90% ay nagugutom at naghihirap.Huwag na tayong lumayo pa para maipakita ang katotohanan ng kahirapan sa Pilipinas.
Maglakad ka rin kagaya ng aking ginawa. Sinu-sino ang iyong makikita? Isang matandang babae na putol ang paa at nakahiga sa lansangan habang namamalimos. Mga sidecar boys na nag-uunahang makakuha ng pasahero. Isang pulis na nag-aabang ng makokotong. Isang grupo ng mga kabataang may hawak ng solvent at rugby. Si Aling Sidewalk Vendor na nagtitinda ng candy at yosi. Isang kariton na isang buong pamilya ang nakatira. At kung ikaw ay mamalasin makakasalamuha mo si Mamang snatcher at si Manong Holdaper. Bakit nga ba sila nakakaranas ng ganitong uri ng pamumuhay samantalang ang ibang taong ay nagbababad sa karangyaan?! Ang isa nga sa pinakamayamang tao sa buong mundo ay Pilipino.Ayon sa National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) noong taong 2006, upang makuha ng isang pamilyang pilipino sa NCR, na binubuo ng limang miyembro, ang kanilang mga pangunahing pangangailangan ay kailangan nilang kumita ng Php. 8,254.00. Ang isang naglalako ng balot, kapag hindi kumita ng walong libong piso ay maghihirap. Ang Php. 8,254.00. ay sapat lamang sa limang miyembro ng pamilya, sa katotohanan, hindi lamang lima ang pinapakain sa isang pamilya. May mga pamilya na may anim hanggang sampung anak. Ang ibang pamilya naman ay wala talagang kakayahang kumita ng walong libong piso sa isang buwan.
Ayon sa mga pananaliksik, ang ilan sa ating mga kababayan ay nabubuhay lamang sa Php.32 pesos at pinipilit na pagkasyahin ang kakarampot na halaga. At ano ang kapalit? Ang kanilang kalusugan. Hindi ba tayo nagtataka kung bakit halos kapantay lang natin ang Afrika kung malnutrisyon ang pagbabatayan? Sa Pilipinas ay 27.6 % ang mga kaso ng malnutrisyon at 29% naman sa kontinente ng Afrika. Ikaw ba naman ang magpasuso ng kape sa sanggol sa halip na gatas. Ang pinagsaluhan ay isang instant noodle sa hapag kainan. Kaya sa isang pamilya, napipilitan ang mga bata na tumulong upang kahit papaano’y mairaos ang gutom.
Talamak ang child labor sa ating bansa mula sa iba’t ibang industriya. May mga nagtratrabaho sa
minahan, sa plantasyon ng tubo, sa pagawaan ng paputok, sa pabrika, at ang pinakamasaklap ay sa prostitusyon. Minsan, makakakita ka rin sa lansangan ng mga batang namamalimos at manghihingi sa iyo ng pangkain nila. Ayon sa National Statistics Office o NSO, nasa apat na milyong kabataan ang nagtratrabaho samantalang mayroon tayong batas na nagbabawal nito, ito ay ang Republic Act 9231 o ang Anti Child Labor Law. Higit sa kalahati ng nasabing bilang ay mga kabataang nasa mga pinakamapanganib na industriya. Ang mga kabataang ito ay humaharap kay kamatayan sa araw-araw na pagtatrabaho sapagka’t wala silang mga angkop na kagamitan at ang pook mismo kung saan sila nagbabanat ng buto ay ang mismong nagbibigay ng peligro. Ang isa sa mga nakakalungkot na katotohanan ay 30% ng mga kabataang nagtratrabaho ay hindi na pumapasok sa paaralan. Ang mga bata ay hindi na nakakapaglaro dahil sa kahirapan.Kung sinasabi ng ating pamahalaan na gumaganda ang takbo ng ekonomiya, nasaan ang perang kinikita ng ating bansa ? Halos kalahati ng kabuuang kinikita ng Pilipinas ay pinambabayad natin sa utang ng bansa ayon sa dokumentaryong “Banking on Life and Debts”. At ang sinasabi nila ay interes pa lamang an gating binabayaran. Batay kay Professor Leonor Briones ng Freedom from Debt Coalition, walang planong bawasan ang porsyento ng ibinabayad ng ating gobyerno sa World Bank at IMF at ito ang dahilan kung bakit kulang na kulang ang perang inilalaan para sa pabahay, edukasyon, at serbisyong pangkalusugan ng ating bansa. Nararapat lamang na hayaan munang makabawi ang Pilipinas bago magbayad ng utang subali’t hindi ito ang nagaganap. Naghihirap na nga ang bansa, nagpupumilit pa rin tayong magbayad ng utang kahit hindi natin kaya dahil sa mga pangakong binitawan ng mga nakaraang pinuno ng bansa. Ito rin ang panuntunan na ibinigay sa atin ng mga bansang ating pinagkaka-utangan. Saan napunta ang inutang na hanggang ngayon ay ating binabayaran? Sa mga proyekto ng ating gobyerno at sa bulsa ng mga politikong kinukurakot ang kaban ng bansa. At dahil sa mga utang na ito, lalong naghihirap at patuloy na maghihirap ang bayan ni Juan.
February 10, 2009
February 9, 2009
GANTI
"Ganti"
Mag-iika anim na ng gabi. Tanaw mula sa bintana ng silid aralan ang paglubog ng araw. Handa na ang mga gamit ng mga bata at nakaimpake rin ang kanilang mga aklat at kwaderno. Biglang tumunog ang bell ng paaralan na naghuhudyat na tapos na ang klase para sa araw na ito.
“Children, tapos na ang klase! and remember! Be happy!” at nagpaalam na si Divina sa mga bata.
Isa-isang nagsilabas ng kwarto ang mga bata. Uuwi na rin sana si Divina ng may napansin siyang nakaabang sa kanya sa pinto ng kanilang silid.
Namumukhaan ito ni Divina. Si Terry, ang kanyang nakatatandang kapatid. Maglalakad si Divina palabas ng pinto nang tanungin siya ni Terry, "May relasyon ba kayo ng asawa ko?"
"Relasyon?" patanong na tugon ni Divina.
"Relasyon! Querida! Kabit! Number 2! Mistres. Relasyon!" at tiningnan ni Terry si Divina mula ulo hanggang paa.
"Terry!" sambit ni Divina.
"Wag mo akong ma Terry Terry. Sagutin mo ang tanong ko.Are you fucking my husband!?" pasigaw na bigkas ni Terry.
HIndi na lamang umimik si Divina sa mga paratang ni Terry.
"Ikaw pala. Ikaw pala ang sinasabi ng asawa ko na asawa mo na asawa ng bayan!" wika ni Terry kay Divina,"Para kang karinderyang bukas sa lahat ng gustong kumain. Sayang ka, maganda ka, edukada, pero tanga!"
Iiwasan na lamang sana ni Divina si Terry at aalpasan na niya ito subali't hinablot siya sa kanang kamay at sinabing, "Hoy babae, hindi pa tayo tapos!"
Nabitawan ni Divina ang kanyang bitbit na gamit at nagpatuloy si Terry sa pagsasalita, "Ikaw ang matalino! Ikaw ang maganda! Ikaw ang mahal ng itay! Malandi! Haliparot! Inagaw mo ang lahat sa akin! Lahat!"
"Wala akong ginagawang masama!" at ikinalas ni Divina ang kanyang kamay sa pagkakakapit ni Terry.
"Akala mo lang wala! Pero meron! meron! Meron!" at sinampal ni Terry si Divina.
Namula ang pisngi ni Divina sa lakas ng pagkakadampi ng kamay ni Terry.
Dinama ni Divina ang kanyang mukha, "Ate, please!"
"Huwag mo akong ma ate ate! Ampon! Ampon! Ampon!" sa pagkakataong ito, higit na mataas ang tono ng pagsasalita ni Terry kay Divina.
Nang marinig ni Divina ang katagang ampon ay nagpantig ang kanyang tainga. Nagbalik sa kanyang alaala ang nakaraan at itinigil na ang pagtitimpi, "Tama na!"
"Ibalik mo sa akin si Jun-jun! Mamamatay ako!" pagalit na bigkas ni Terry.
"Ipalilibing kita!" pagmamatigas ni Divina kay Terry.
"Hayop! Hayop! Hayop!" sasampalin sana ulit ni Terry si Divina sa kanang pisngi subali't napigilan ito ni Divina gamit ang ang kanyang kaliwang kamay. Gumanti si Divina ng sampal kay Terry.
"Nung inagaw mo sa 'kin si Alex muntik na rin akong mamatay. Puwes, ikaw naman ngayon ang mamatay" wika ni Divina.
Nagkaroon ng katahimikan. Tinitigan ni Divina si Terry. Ganun rin si Terry kay Divina. Wala mang salitang namumutawi sa kanilang mga labi ay nangungusap ang kanilang mga mata. Ang maririnig mo lamang sa kanilang dalawa ay ang mabilis na pintig ng kanilang mga puso at ang kanilang paghinga. Ilang minuto rin silang walang imik at matagal tagal ring nagbaling ng tingin sa isa't isa.
Inalayo ni Divina ang kanyang mga mata kay Terry at pinulot ang kanyang mga gamit sa lapag. Habang naglalakad ay may luhang pumatak sa kanyang mga mata.
“Children, tapos na ang klase! and remember! Be happy!” at nagpaalam na si Divina sa mga bata.
Isa-isang nagsilabas ng kwarto ang mga bata. Uuwi na rin sana si Divina ng may napansin siyang nakaabang sa kanya sa pinto ng kanilang silid.
Namumukhaan ito ni Divina. Si Terry, ang kanyang nakatatandang kapatid. Maglalakad si Divina palabas ng pinto nang tanungin siya ni Terry, "May relasyon ba kayo ng asawa ko?"
"Relasyon?" patanong na tugon ni Divina.
"Relasyon! Querida! Kabit! Number 2! Mistres. Relasyon!" at tiningnan ni Terry si Divina mula ulo hanggang paa.
"Terry!" sambit ni Divina.
"Wag mo akong ma Terry Terry. Sagutin mo ang tanong ko.Are you fucking my husband!?" pasigaw na bigkas ni Terry.
HIndi na lamang umimik si Divina sa mga paratang ni Terry.
"Ikaw pala. Ikaw pala ang sinasabi ng asawa ko na asawa mo na asawa ng bayan!" wika ni Terry kay Divina,"Para kang karinderyang bukas sa lahat ng gustong kumain. Sayang ka, maganda ka, edukada, pero tanga!"
Iiwasan na lamang sana ni Divina si Terry at aalpasan na niya ito subali't hinablot siya sa kanang kamay at sinabing, "Hoy babae, hindi pa tayo tapos!"
Nabitawan ni Divina ang kanyang bitbit na gamit at nagpatuloy si Terry sa pagsasalita, "Ikaw ang matalino! Ikaw ang maganda! Ikaw ang mahal ng itay! Malandi! Haliparot! Inagaw mo ang lahat sa akin! Lahat!"
"Wala akong ginagawang masama!" at ikinalas ni Divina ang kanyang kamay sa pagkakakapit ni Terry.
"Akala mo lang wala! Pero meron! meron! Meron!" at sinampal ni Terry si Divina.
Namula ang pisngi ni Divina sa lakas ng pagkakadampi ng kamay ni Terry.
Dinama ni Divina ang kanyang mukha, "Ate, please!"
"Huwag mo akong ma ate ate! Ampon! Ampon! Ampon!" sa pagkakataong ito, higit na mataas ang tono ng pagsasalita ni Terry kay Divina.
Nang marinig ni Divina ang katagang ampon ay nagpantig ang kanyang tainga. Nagbalik sa kanyang alaala ang nakaraan at itinigil na ang pagtitimpi, "Tama na!"
"Ibalik mo sa akin si Jun-jun! Mamamatay ako!" pagalit na bigkas ni Terry.
"Ipalilibing kita!" pagmamatigas ni Divina kay Terry.
"Hayop! Hayop! Hayop!" sasampalin sana ulit ni Terry si Divina sa kanang pisngi subali't napigilan ito ni Divina gamit ang ang kanyang kaliwang kamay. Gumanti si Divina ng sampal kay Terry.
"Nung inagaw mo sa 'kin si Alex muntik na rin akong mamatay. Puwes, ikaw naman ngayon ang mamatay" wika ni Divina.
Nagkaroon ng katahimikan. Tinitigan ni Divina si Terry. Ganun rin si Terry kay Divina. Wala mang salitang namumutawi sa kanilang mga labi ay nangungusap ang kanilang mga mata. Ang maririnig mo lamang sa kanilang dalawa ay ang mabilis na pintig ng kanilang mga puso at ang kanilang paghinga. Ilang minuto rin silang walang imik at matagal tagal ring nagbaling ng tingin sa isa't isa.
Inalayo ni Divina ang kanyang mga mata kay Terry at pinulot ang kanyang mga gamit sa lapag. Habang naglalakad ay may luhang pumatak sa kanyang mga mata.
Reference Movies:
"Mila"
"Ikaw ay Akin"
"Brutal"
"Minsan Lang Kita Iibigan"
“Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin?"
"Inagaw Mo Ang Lahat Sa Akin"
"Nagbabagang Luha"
"Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa"
"Nagalit ang Buwan sa Haba ng Gabi"
"Ina Ka Ng Anak Mo"
"Palimos ng Pag-ibig"
"Paano Ba Ang Mangarap"
"Abandonada"
"Mila"
"Ikaw ay Akin"
"Brutal"
"Minsan Lang Kita Iibigan"
“Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin?"
"Inagaw Mo Ang Lahat Sa Akin"
"Nagbabagang Luha"
"Bata, Bata, Paano Ka Ginawa"
"Nagalit ang Buwan sa Haba ng Gabi"
"Ina Ka Ng Anak Mo"
"Palimos ng Pag-ibig"
"Paano Ba Ang Mangarap"
"Abandonada"
February 8, 2009
February 3, 2009
January 30, 2009
New US President commits to further LGBT rights
Newly sworn-in US President Barack Obama commits to oppose a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, support full civil unions and federal rights of same-sex couples, expand adoption rights, fight workplace discrimination among others.New President Barack Obama called for a 'new era of responsibility' as he took the oath of office as the United States’ 44th president – and first African-American president in the country's history.
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In his 20-minute inaugural address, the new president acknowledged how far African Americans had come in the country with one poignant line.
"This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath."
And doubly so as he was sworn in on the steps of the US Capitol Building which slaves helped build from the 1790s until the 1820s.
The 47-year-old president was born in Honolulu, Hawaii to a Kenyan father and a white American mother.
President Obama’s address has been described by news outlets such as the New York Times as a ‘stark repudiation of the era of George W. Bush’ despite being couched in indirect terms. He referenced a wide range of issues from interrogation policies to the invasion of Iraq and the use of its military power and spoke of the need to “restore science to its rightful place.”
He is expected to reverse some of the most contentious policies of the Bush administration such as banning the use of harsh interrogation techniques on suspected terrorists, giving a go-ahead for stem cell research and repealing the military’s Don't Ask-Don't Tell policy which bans openly gay and lesbian personnel from serving.
On Tuesday, the White House web site was updated with a list of commitments to further LGBT rights on his civil rights agenda:
THE AGENDA • CIVIL RIGHTS Support for the LGBT Community
"While we have come a long way since the Stonewall riots in 1969, we still have a lot of work to do. Too often, the issue of LGBT rights is exploited by those seeking to divide us. But at its core, this issue is about who we are as Americans. It's about whether this nation is going to live up to its founding promise of equality by treating all its citizens with dignity and respect." - Barack Obama, June 1, 2007
Expand Hate Crimes Statutes: In 2004, crimes against LGBT Americans constituted the third-highest category of hate crime reported and made up more than 15 percent of such crimes. President Obama cosponsored legislation that would expand federal jurisdiction to include violent hate crimes perpetrated because of race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or physical disability. As a state senator, President Obama passed tough legislation that made hate crimes and conspiracy to commit them against the law.
Fight Workplace Discrimination: President Obama supports the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, and believes that our anti-discrimination employment laws should be expanded to include sexual orientation and gender identity. While an increasing number of employers have extended benefits to their employees' domestic partners, discrimination based on sexual orientation in the workplace occurs with no federal legal remedy. The President also sponsored legislation in the Illinois State Senate that would ban employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.
Support Full Civil Unions and Federal Rights for LGBT Couples: President Obama supports full civil unions that give same-sex couples legal rights and privileges equal to those of married couples. Obama also believes we need to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits currently provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples in civil unions and other legally-recognized unions. These rights and benefits include the right to assist a loved one in times of emergency, the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, and property rights.
Oppose a Constitutional Ban on Same-Sex Marriage: President Obama voted against the Federal Marriage Amendment in 2006 which would have defined marriage as between a man and a woman and prevented judicial extension of marriage-like rights to same-sex or other unmarried couples.
Repeal Don't Ask-Don't Tell: President Obama agrees with former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff John Shalikashvili and other military experts that we need to repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. The key test for military service should be patriotism, a sense of duty, and a willingness to serve. Discrimination should be prohibited. The U.S. government has spent millions of dollars replacing troops kicked out of the military because of their sexual orientation. Additionally, more than 300 language experts have been fired under this policy, including more than 50 who are fluent in Arabic. The President will work with military leaders to repeal the current policy and ensure it helps accomplish our national defense goals.
Expand Adoption Rights: President Obama believes that we must ensure adoption rights for all couples and individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. He thinks that a child will benefit from a healthy and loving home, whether the parents are gay or not.
Promote AIDS Prevention: In the first year of his presidency, President Obama will develop and begin to implement a comprehensive national HIV/AIDS strategy that includes all federal agencies. The strategy will be designed to reduce HIV infections, increase access to care and reduce HIV-related health disparities. The President will support common sense approaches including age-appropriate sex education that includes information about contraception, combating infection within our prison population through education and contraception, and distributing contraceptives through our public health system. The President also supports lifting the federal ban on needle exchange, which could dramatically reduce rates of infection among drug users. President Obama has also been willing to confront the stigma - too often tied to homophobia - that continues to surround HIV/AIDS.
Empower Women to Prevent HIV/AIDS: In the United States, the percentage of women diagnosed with AIDS has quadrupled over the last 20 years. Today, women account for more than one quarter of all new HIV/AIDS diagnoses. President Obama introduced the Microbicide Development Act, which will accelerate the development of products that empower women in the battle against AIDS. Microbicides are a class of products currently under development that women apply topically to prevent transmission of HIV and other infections.
(from: http://www.fridae.com/newsfeatures/article.php?articleid=2384&viewarticle=1&searchtype=all)
January 29, 2009
Lesbian to be Iceland's First Female PM
(From: http://news.aol.com/article/icelands-next-leader-is-openly-gay-woman/320430)REYKJAVIK, Iceland (Jan. 28) - Iceland's next leader will be an openly gay former flight attendant who parlayed her experience as a union organizer into a decades-long political career.
Both parties forming Iceland's new coalition government support the appointment of Johanna Sigurdardottir, the island nation's 66-year-old social affairs minister, as Iceland's interim prime minister.
"Now we need a strong government that works with the people," Sigurdardottir told reporters Wednesday, adding that a new administration will likely be installed Saturday.
Sigurdardottir will lead until new elections are held, likely in May. But analysts say she's unlikely to remain in office — chiefly because her center-left Social Democratic Alliance isn't expected to rank among the major parties after the election.
READ COMPLETE STORY.
READ COMPLETE STORY.
January 25, 2009
Kung Hei Fat Choi
The Rabbit (1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999) can look forward to a better in 2009 Year of the Ox because of the number of stars of relationships shining on him in the year of the Ox. After going through many changes like reunions, separations, heated arguments and changing jobs, things will be more stable and favorable for him.
The star of Harmony Yue De symbolizes excellent human relationships and it can turn dangers into opportunities. This means that the Rabbit will be having people around him taking good care of him and supporting all his needs. The star Sui He is a star that represents harmony between spouses. This star can also help the Rabbit get support from his supervisors and/or superiors as well as from elderly family members.
Two stars, Tao Hua and Xian Chi, which are stars of Love Luck are working together to make the Rabbit be more attractive and charming than ever before. For married Rabbits however, it is advised that they practice extreme caution and try hard to resist temptations. Because with the two stars shining on them, they might be overwhelmed by people who will show interest in them, no matter what their gender maybe, or else they might become involved in love triangles. These people will do anything just to please them. For Single Rabbits, it is a good year to pursue that love interest because there is a good chance that they will be accepted.
Lastly, the stars Xiao Hao and Si Fu are two stars that the Rabbit should be aware of and take extra caution with. Because Xia Hao represents minor financial loss, which could be brought about by the money spent in entertaining more friends and lovers. Si Fu on the other hand represents an elderly male family member who might suffer from health which should be given special attention to.
The star of Harmony Yue De symbolizes excellent human relationships and it can turn dangers into opportunities. This means that the Rabbit will be having people around him taking good care of him and supporting all his needs. The star Sui He is a star that represents harmony between spouses. This star can also help the Rabbit get support from his supervisors and/or superiors as well as from elderly family members.
Two stars, Tao Hua and Xian Chi, which are stars of Love Luck are working together to make the Rabbit be more attractive and charming than ever before. For married Rabbits however, it is advised that they practice extreme caution and try hard to resist temptations. Because with the two stars shining on them, they might be overwhelmed by people who will show interest in them, no matter what their gender maybe, or else they might become involved in love triangles. These people will do anything just to please them. For Single Rabbits, it is a good year to pursue that love interest because there is a good chance that they will be accepted.
Lastly, the stars Xiao Hao and Si Fu are two stars that the Rabbit should be aware of and take extra caution with. Because Xia Hao represents minor financial loss, which could be brought about by the money spent in entertaining more friends and lovers. Si Fu on the other hand represents an elderly male family member who might suffer from health which should be given special attention to.
January 24, 2009
MILK
Another MUST SEE MOVIE. Although it is not in the Philippine setting, I am sure that we will be able to learn a lot form this film. Again, fighting for what we think is right is the main purpose why social activism for gender equality exist in our country. The same concept is seen in the film.
Despite being oppressed because of social deviancy doesn't mean you have to stop believing in what you think is right! We must continue in our journey for equal rights because what we're asking are not special priviledges, but acceptance and respect from all the people around us.
I can still remember the people telling me to change because it is not OK to be GAY. Well, ok, it may not ok to be Gay, but it's cool to be one. I may be different from the sexual role that the society imposed on me, but I am still what I am. Embrace my sexuality!
The bottom line is... Never stop believing... Keep trying... You may never know, we can change history for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community in our country...
January 23, 2009
The Thank You Girls
"You'll feel more at home here than in any previous drag-queen movie. If you don't, you'll laugh, you'll gasp, you may even hurl. But you'll come out a better person." - Vancouver International Film FestivalSYNOPSIS:
"The 'Thank You' Girls" is a Visayan film with a gay lingo twist. (with subtitles)
Tired of losing in all the beauty competitions in Davao City, six dysfunctional gay beauty pageant veterans decide to travel north to Cagayan de Oro City, in the island of Mindanao, with a mission to conquer the grandest competition of beauty, personality and brains in the province. They believe that being city dwellers, gays in the province will never stand a chance against them.
Passing through the breathtaking landscapes and cultural vignettes of the Mindanao provinces, each queer need not only struggle to win a single title but also battles against his individual internal demon raring its ugly head behind their pink masks.
During their travel, the ultimate gay adventure of the characters brings them to back to the basics of themselves and of each other.
While they are blinded by their belief in the power of their so-called beauty, they still have to prove that whether on or off stage, beauty doesn't just come in packages wrapped in foundation, mascara, eyeliners and witty beauty pageant answers. What they will discover about themselves could be fitting and that being a run-away loser is not at all ugly.
Because what is essential is VISIBLE to the naked eye.
Directed by: Charliebebs Gohetia
Produced by: Brooklyn Park Pictures in cooperation with Bicycle Pictures and Alchemy of Vision and Light
Starring:
Gie Salonga
July Jimenez
EJ Pantujan
Pidot Villocino
Kit Poliquit
Kim Vergara
Ari Bancale
Joan Soco
REGULAR SCREENING: January 21-27, 2009 ROBINSONS INDIESINE
January 3, 2009
My 2009 Horoscope and Personal Blahs
Last week, before ending the year, I talked with a friend of mine whose view is quite different. He's the type of gay who wouldn't engage in rallies againts discrimination. His statements are somewhat discouraging me to stop what I am doing because I dont have a future in it since this country is not ready to face the reality that we do exist. Although he's accepting the fact that we are JUST TOLERATED and he is contented with that kind of idea and wouldn't care more if we will be accepted or not. The hell he cares if he is not properly treated as long as he is not stepping on other people's lives and is doing all the best to be respected. Well, my only reply was I am happy fighting for equality. I may be able to find my place in this society but how about those who can't since they are being discriminated againts. This is not just for myself but for all the LGBT people out there who can't get out of their closets or those who are maltreated because of their gender identity.
At first I was wondering if I will listen to him or not because he's making sense. It made me think if I can live a normal gay life, not having the burdens that I am carrying now. Thinking of stands on statements just like what the pope said that saving humanity from homosexuality is as important as saving the rainforest. Whoah! Isn't he suppose to unite the world and not cause havoc by giving irresponsible speaches? I am not into issues like Cha-Cha but if it will have an impact to the gay community, you'll see march on the streets shouting at the top of my throat. Going back, I decided to remain the way I am. An activist. Even if my mother is asking me for a grandchild but I have no intention of giving her one because of a three word statement:
I
am
gay...
Live with it mom! Hehehe. I would like to thank her because my outfit were her tights and body fit long sleeves, the malong was mine. I can still remember her reaction when I wore my costume in the Pride March. She can't look at me straight in the eyes. At that very moment, I still felt that she has not yet totally accepted me for what I am. Although it seems like she's comfortable calling me Juday, or Judy Anne, her other term for JUDING.
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Right now, I just went home from a meeting about my organization GABAY. It was an exhausting discussion of several plans and targets for the year 2009 but I believe it's all worth it since my core members are willing to help in order to achieve our goals for this year. What added to my excitement is the idea that there are new people who went earlier who are interested in joining us as an affiliate organization in our team. We welcomed them wholeheartedly as they promised to participate in our events that are beneficial to this country's young LGBTs.
I opened my computer, was about to log in to http://www.friendster.com/ and before going to that site, I was able to read my horoscope for the Year 2009 (courtesy of http://shine.yahoo.com/page/2009-horoscope):
Career:
The Aquarian energy of 2009 encourages you to weave new dreams into peoples' lives, and to help them feel at home in the world. Success grows as exemplify your visions, attracting people who appreciate your compassion to raise their consciousness to a new level. In your service to help others realize deeper realities, you become more aware and sensitive to your own connection to the powers that be. Your profound ability to explore transformation and share wisdom with large communities helps you find a welcome place in society. The love you discover through your own transformation will bring abundant manifestations for others. As you help people heal their consciousness, they can more easily find sanctuary from harsh realities. Your sensitivity to their needs reaches into the deepest realms of a their psyche.
For those who wish also to support change in the world, emotional affinity comes easily between you and your peers. From time-to-time this year, step back and reflect on the deeper purpose of your life's work. Be sure to make decisions that match your own objectives, values and goals, and don't allow yourself to be swayed by others desires. Maintain your individuality. Getting in touch with your dreams will help you know which direction is best to take in your effort to expand your beliefs and be of service in a much larger way.
At the first glimpse of my horoscope for this year, I was surprised to see these words. I was motivated to excel more on what I am doing right now which is my advocacy on gay rights and helping younger LGBT people reach their full potential despite being discriminated in this society. Do I have to believe this? My answer is simple, it is man who creates his own destiny, and since this prediction is quite challenging, I will make sure it will happen...
May this be a good head start for 2009 and hopefully, me and my team can change the society in our own little ways for the future generation of the beckies alike.
Did I make sense?
Whatever... hahahaha.
May mali ba sa grammar, walang pakialamanan, blog ko toh, Ahihihihi.
