Abhorred, Avoided and Unpopular: Affordable Divorce in the Philippines by KATE COSETENG

Admitting the causes she's supporting as "Unpopular", Quezon City 3rd District Councilor Kate Coseteng is not about to let down what she sees as necessary for women in the Philippines. She is the first representative of Kababaihan PartyList which aims to be the voice of women in congress to enact laws that would benefit the public. Their Second Nominee Ria Romualdo is a registered nurse, and has sternly supported their causes in childrens health and welfare, based in Mindanao.

 Kate is no stranger in creating laws as she's been a Quezon City Councilor for 3 terms, has done the same in Valenzuela City. She pushed for the creation of Quezon City University, dialysis centers, PWD concerns, and benefits for solo parents (something she is pretty well known for). She uttered unpopular because these are certain things that people don't accept, especially matters that concern divorce. She lengthily discussed this with us because of the things that women go through. 

If set in an abusive marriage, it may also be physical, emotional and economical. She's optimistic it will get passed if it doesn't contain certain conditions such as "irreconcilable differences" as it is too broad to define and be accepted by lawmakers. I saw how practical she was and deal it without emotions, much like business and a numbers game rather than having just a feisty disposition. She focusing on going into it with pride, curiosity, knowledge that the causes are important. If you don't know, it is extremely expensive to get an annulment in the Philippines and it is extremely an anti poor legislation. The plan is, to have divorce be afforded by folks of any stature. She mentioned it being paid for as much as 5,000 pesos, all in. This could definitely be a game changer for a lot of women who couldn't afford the annulment process if they are abused. 

The KABABAIHAN PartyList is also very aware of current issues, and would want to address working conditions for women who work at odd hours. Call Center agents, BPO, Nurses, Bartenders, Security Guards, and the likes, they feel should have a place to safely leave their kids while they are working to make a living. They want a Night Care Center to do this to also be a place for refuge for women who are victims of abuse, to also have them train for livelihood and business, also get legal and psychological help if needed. They also want to help create laws that would provide micro finance so women could put up small businesses to provide for their families. This includes financial literacy, for obvious reasons. They also want to push for reforms regarding the LGBTQIA+ sector, to provide a more general view of the equality they've been longing for. Something that they want to do with reforms, even if it means they would have to start from scratch. 

Kate says "If you see the things we have on our platform are severely unpopular. It's a bit heavy to digest, but these are legitimate issues in our society. For example divorce, since we are a very Catholic nation, it's super difficult to pass laws like it. We already have passed a version in congress, but it met its demise in the senate. This goes the same with the SOGIE Bill that has already spent 24 years since its inception. Senator Miriam Santiago first did this in the early 2000's, and when asked what I could help with their cause, they answered just "respect", so we made efforts to make it less polarizing when it is sent to the Senate. This would be more like an anti discrimination act that would be applicable for all including the LGBTQIA+ community. Baby steps, we can't just promise platforms and not have progress." 

Here's her talk if you want a more detailed understanding of it:

Unpopular, yes, but it feels so necessary for a LOT of people. It was super nice to hear all these from her and how passionate she wants it all to happen. Women remains a sector that is heavily under represented to this day. I know so many folks who would greatly benefit from the laws she mentioned especially with divorce for abused women.

Do you agree with her?

Meet PERCI VILAR CENDANA | Your Working CongressMader of AKBAYAN

While the rest of the folks are in the bleachers watching, Akbayan took to the streets and the halls of congress to make sure check and balance exists even if all the odds were against them in recent years. Meet CongressMader Perci Vilar Cendana, second nominee and stalwart of your rights, matters on labor, the less privileged, youth, women, LGBT and various sectors.

He's not new in the movement. Hailed as the first openly gay university student council Chairperson in UP Diliman (at a time where homophobia was still happening), he fought tooth and nail with individuals that resorted to personal attacks, and faced real pressing discrimination in his early college years. Together with UP Babaylan (the country's first LGBT student organization), they eventually opened minds, avenues and spark change in the campus, and the rest followed suit. He feels in congress, he's doing the same bringing in the agenda that would benefit the needs of ordinary citizens. 

He says "My political life has always revolved around Anakbayan, I became part of it after college by working in civil society groups, an NGO like the Freedom from Debt Coalition (involves matters on economic issues), and fell in love with the work that Akbayan is doing. I was involved with them since they 90's til now. I then became the Chief of Staff for Senator Risa Hontiveros whom I already knew when she was in congress, and planned to run for Senate in 2010 (as Campaign Manager), 2013, then she won in 2016. I was then appointed for the National Youth Commission during PNOY's term. While working for the government was far from my mind, it was a time for reform, and I felt it was a good time to work for the country." 

He adds "I was part of group who organized pride marches, the one in 1996, over 100+ people who marched in the contingent in Manila. Last year, hundreds of thousands now march in the occasion. Akbayan is for equality, til today, it baffles me that security of tenure is still being discussed. The culture of ENDO/contractualization should never be done. We also do the same for women, LGBT, anyone who needs social services. Citizens should never be asking for it, it is but a right. Universal Health Care should be supported by all of us."

NYC was the same venue where he started the campaign about "Teen Pregnancy", working on the Reproductive Health Law. He also started with various efforts on HIV, and still on the SOGIE Equality Bill. He is now the 2nd Nominee for the Akbayan Partylist, bringing his experience to the House of Congress over 2 decades of experience in public service. He's quite aware that he's got big shoes to fill since several Akbayan representatives like Eta Rosales, Risa Hontiveros, and more have done quite well during their stint in the congress. Today, CongressMader Perci is pushing for the KIAN Bill. This is to keep innocent young kids from getting victimized further. He also will try to enable laws against mining, the nationwide availability of the right to care card (a version of which is already done in Quezon City), plus the most controversial one yet, a bill for "Mindful Parking" which penalizes those who will bodily reserve parking slots; which as of recent has enraged the public. 

Here's more of our discussion on video:

Together with Atty. Chel Diokno (1st Nominee), Dadah Kiram Ismula (3rd Nominee) and Akbayan Youth Chair Justine Balane (4th nominee), CongressMader Perci Vilar Cendana (2nd Nominee) and the Akbayan Partylist is committed increase effort and reforms against political dynasties, improve + hold rights for ordinary Filipinos, and continue to push for apt labor laws in the congress. They will also be participating in Quad hearings to hold folks accountable specifically EJK's in previous years. They will also help with regards to the rights of Moro women in various indigenous and marginalized communities, to work as a force who understands their struggles and the youth.

CongressMader Perci not only presents an option, but a person who's got a track record of work accomplished. Akbayan's not done with the causes they've so passionately worked on these past few years. Here's to more legislation work that is felt by ordinary folks, ones that deserve the help they could provide. It was a pleasure to get to know you!

SPARKS CAMP - First Queer Dating Show in the Philippines

Is dating difficult these days? Have you been looking for that certain spark? Be ready as 10 single guys gets the ball rolling in the country's first queer dating reality show called "SPARKS CAMP". The show will be premiered this Wednesday at Black Sheep's YouTube channel and yes, netizens have certainly noticed.

I've seen how people reacted on Twitter, some thirsty for conversations. At the helm is Director Theodore Boborol who has been part other hit shows like PBB and MMK among others. Patrick Valencia and Daniel Saniana also wrote the script. Patrick has done "Hanging Out", "The Third Party",  hit web show "Hello Stranger". Daniel on the other hand did "Sila Sila" apart from his other works. Hosting the show is Ms. Mela Habijan who's been a stern supporter and part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Director Theodore says "We are very excited to let you see the show Sparks Camp, I hope you enjoy the show and hear who you are rooting for in the camp."

Mela says "Happy pride! This is the first queer reality dating show, it's difficult for the community and hope this sparks conversations especially in the queer community."

Here are highlights from this evening's mediacon, enjoy!

People will love the cast, as campers Dan, Nick, Gabe, Justin, Stanley, Karl, Aaron, Alex, Bong, Nat will be trying their luck in finding the one who will give them that spark. This is part of the throng of content that ABSCBN is putting out on YouTube, make sure you watch and take part in the conversation. Remember, May 24 at 8pm, in Black Sheep's YouTube channel.

Patrick Valencia in the end adds "This is our labor of love and hope you spread the word, thank you!"

PS. Got the chance to see the first episode, which you shouldn't miss so you get to know the guys before they try to see if there's real spark!

FamiLIGTAS: Stand Against Gender-Based Violence

Speaking out and speaking your mind these days can get you red tagged, abused, violated, which is such a sad state in the country.

They can either be women, children, the elderly or part of the LGBTQ community, but they all experience supposed violence in one form or another. The problem is, most of these incidents come unreported or never gets surfaced more so during the pandemic. The psycho social, economic and mental state attribute to its worsening, but is should never be a reason or excuse ro why it should happen.

This afternoon, I got to join a press conference hosted by the one and onlyMs. Karen Davila about “FamiLIGTAS” which is a campaign against Gender-Based Violence spearheaded by RTI International, USAID Philippines and supported by government and NGO’s, as to also learn more about the situation in the country. 

Ms. Michelle Lang Alli the Director of US AID Philippines says “Your support against Gender violence requires more. It has affected 2.5 Million people nationwide including women, children, the elderly and LGBTQ sector. The pandemic has affected us all, but there is no excuse for gender based violence. We need to make available our programs for equality, to reduce GBV and its harmful effects socially and the marginalized. Recent surveys 2 in 5 women never sought help from violence, and the PNP has recorded 19.5 incidents per day in the Philippines. By forming new and enriching existing partnerships, we can help change policies, raise the volume with GBV so they can have better options now, to keep our homes and community safe, thank you!”

Lolito Tacardon of POPCOM says “This is an important campaign and it currently, homes are places for perpetrators for violence, in imbalance for the basis of gender, it affects the victim, the children, even in this pandemic. The good news is we can break that, take it out of our culture, save people from oppressive violence. We have a joint statement to support vigilance and protect families from any forms of violence. We harness our website, to encourage our followers about GBV. We recognize the raise in pregnancies of minors, to move institutions and have access to facilities of care. Our strongest weapon is our belief that we can break this cycle of violence, we will provide the platform for every Filipino woman and child, Popcom will support to further empower families.”

Dr. Carolyn of UP adds  “We commit to explain and carry out this campaign effectively. You can call on us anytime, even if we are bashed right now.”

Dana Aduna from Luna’s Collective says “Quarantine data shows Violence against Women and Children have gone down, but this doesn’t mean it is happening. It has been difficult to report crimes since everyone is in isolation. Gender inequality exists, between intimate partners, and inequalities can be related to social class, religion, women can be oppressed, some interlocking forms of violence. Seeking help, it shows 34%  do not seek help or talk to anyone at all. Luna’s Collective wants to be involved to make people talk about psychosocial support, legal, health services and is volunteer powered. Our core belief is that everyone should be comfortable about our bodies, make the community informed and live fully. We understand that gender and power relations should not dictate class and importance in society. We are at our homes with a huge amount of time and if is in a violent setup, we have women come to us, not just first timers, even repeat instances. We remind them it is not their fault, but again this is not an excuse for violence. Similar with men, women or children, even LGBTQ experience it. We need to build a support system in order to stop this.“

Patrizia Garcia adds “GBV happens and so does its effects on mental health. This cause is very close to my heart, we can encourage them to help, our communities.”

Our share of the burden is to support victims of violence, help them get the help they need, and give them access so they won’t experience this at all.  Even at these times, there should not be any instance where GBV Is justified. The state also has a role to protect these rights, which is the right thing to do. Economic, Physical, Psychological, all Gender Based violence should have no place in a progressive society. 

To know more about the cause or if you need help, visit their Facebook page at Familigtas PH as everything is there.

 

GAMEBOYS' Elijah Canlas: In the shoes of Cai Lazaro

Elijah taking a dip.

(Photo credits: Photo is from Elijah Canlas' IG post, not mine)

Kokoy De Santos and Elijah Canlas have done several films already and this digital Filipino BL (boys love) series have made everyone stick to their phones, tablets and PC's over several months, obsessed with the show called GAMEBOYS. 

It's timely, current, and discusses tons of issues so people have been able to relate to it. Aside from that, their story continues to blossom, putting spins to run of the mill hetero kind of relationships and opens a whole world of possibilities on LOVE. It doesn't go without hitches of course because along the way, friends, exes, comebacks, always had to ruin things for them. Fret not, as they will keep you at the edge of your seats and give you more reasons to see if CaiReel (Cairo and Gavreel) will eventually end up together. We all want that to happen.

I have already asked Kokoy De Santos about the show and this time, we're asking Elijah Canlas about his embodiment of Cairo Lazaro. He is the gamer who fell in the hands of Gavreel played by Kokoy De Santos. Will he get charmed and tell the truth about his feelings? Or will he be holding back and suffer in the end? 

I had the chance to interview you for your film Kalel,15, a very daring role. How did you get picked for Gameboys?

I don’t really know why Direk Jun and Perci picked me exactly but I’ve been blessed enough to be a part of The IdeaFirst family ever since late-2018. I’m also grateful for the trust the whole team has given me.

Have you worked with Kokoy before? How is he as a person?

Yup. I’ve worked with Kokoy before for Petersen Vargas’ Some Nights I Feel Like Walking. He’s definitely fun to be around with. He’s not far off from Gavreel’s personality also but I’d say he’s much more than that.

Who is Cairo for you?

Cairo is definitely one of the hardest roles I’ve had to portray. Me and Cairo have a love and hate relationship. But I’ve grown to love and appreciate him more now. I

always work hard and strive for a performance that justifies representation the best I can. There’s always immense pressure in portraying a character who is dear to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Who in Cai’s eyes is Gavreel? Who/what is he to you? Do you think Kokoy is doing a good job portraying Gav?

Gavreel is the most pleasant surprise in Cairo’s life. Though annoying and aggressive, Cairo appreciates the company and attention Gavreel gives him. He’s never felt a connection as deep as what he’s getting with Gav. He may deny it, but Gav brings light to his life. That sometimes scares him. There is no one else to play Gavreel other than Kokoy, no doubt. He delivers a performance that would instantly give you butterflies in your stomach with every line.

What do you think made Gav fall in love with Cai?

I think it’s Cairo’s mysteriousness. You never know what he’s thinking. I would say that Cairo has this innocence that makes him seem charming. And just like what Terrence said (during Ep5), Gav loves the challenge of courting a guy who’s hard to get.

Do you think Gav is sexy? Do you think Cai is sexy? In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Gav is.... sexy... I guess. Next question! Cai can be sexy sometimes. When he pushes his hair back, and gives you that intimidating look. (10/10 they’re my lips, people usually say they’re so kissable.)

Would you want your own Pearl? Why?

Definitely! We all need a supportive friend who genuinely cares for our well-being and the state of the country.

The show made so many people emotional in your latest episode, you guys are so effective in portraying your roles, where would you like to take Cai’s character? Would you want them to end up together (Are you also rooting for them?)? Why?

I would want Cai to be more decisive and mature. And eventually go to outer space (he kids).

Of course, I want Cai and Gav to end up together! Who doesn’t want a happy ending for these two!

Speaking as Cai, would you love someone like Gav?

To be honest.... maybe... I don’t know!

Did this show change your perspective about love? Was it different prior to starting this show? What’s your message to the fans ofthe show?

This show hasn’t changed my perspective at all. I’ve always been a firm believer of people having the right to love in all ways. It’s sad how our brothers and sisters from

the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face stigma and discrimination to this day and still don’t have the rights they deserve. Everyone should have the right to love.

This is why I’m proud to be a part of this show because it helps in normalizing stories like these. Because there’s no difference between Gameboys and every conventional romantic story out there. They’re all stories about love.

Thank you to everyone who’s been watching and supporting Gameboys! You guys make everything worth it, and we really appreciate it. We have a long way to go! I have so much love for each and everyone of you and I hope we’re able to entertain you despite all the chaos that’s been happening in the world today. Always stay safe and stay sane! Hope to meet all of you soon!

They will be showing Episode 7 this Friday, 8pm at the official The IdeaFirst Company YouTube channel. Make sure to be there to witness what will happen between Gavreel and Cairo's story, he might just admit he loves Gav in front of his ex. Perhaps, you'll see a happy ending as Elijah always wanted too. 

Again, I would like to thank MediaXchange and The IdeaFirst Company for accommodating my request to interview these guys. Thank you also to Kokoy and Elijah for being so nice, hats off to you for not only being so smart answering my questions, hope to see you soon!

PS Fans are going bonkers with Kokoy admitting a relationship with Elijah on CNN, but he said CHARENG. These guys are so funny!

Hope I'd be able to talk to Adrianna So aka Pearl and ask about her upcoming series. She just admitted doing a GL on Twitter, this is interesting!

Get To Know GAMEBOYS' Kokoy De Santos

(Photo credits: Courtesy of Kokoy De Santos' IG post)

If you haven't seen their show, you must be living under a rock. They've been really popular all over social media, and getting hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube earmarks the success of the series called GAMEBOYS. It's a home grown Pinoy BL series (Boys Love) which was done while everyone was under ECQ. It kept everyone glued to their phones, PC's and laptops, so I was really interested about how they personally felt about playing their characters. 

GAMEBOYS lead stars Elijah Canlas and Kokoy De Santos really piqued the interest of viewers as each episode unfold at 8pm every Friday at the IdeaFirst Company's official YouTube channel and they've confirmed that it will end on Episode 10. I sent Kokoy De Santos some questions so you could get to know them more. It was very interesting to see how he answered them.

How did you get involved with GAMEBOYS?

Nagsimula po ang lahat nung tinawagan ako ng The Idea First Company, inoffer nila sakin yung project, kwinento nila sakin yung role, and i just fell in love with it!

(It started with a call from The IdeaFirst Company who offered me this project, they told me about the role and I just fell in love with it!)

Can you tell us a little bit about your filming process?

Nakakapanibago, nag-shoot kami sa kanya-kanyang tahanan. Challenging, nakakapagod pero sobrang rewarding. Just enjoying the process!

(It was all new to me because we had to shoot scenes at home. It was challenging, tiring at times, but super rewarding. I am just enjoying the process!)

How did you guys make this all possible?

Sa tulong po ng aming Direktor at ang buong Production, syempre kasama din ang aming mga pamilya.

(With the help of our Director, the whole production, and our family)

This show is breaking ground on so many issues, what made you say yes to it?

Mas nandoon lang po ako sa positive side, always! Sobrang happy ako kasi madami po ang nakaka-appreciate ng aming series.

(I am just on the positive side of things, always! I am so happy that there are a lot of people who appreciate our series)

Do you enjoy doing Gavreel’s character? Who is he to you?

Sobra.. kasi marami kaming pagkakapareho po ni Gavreel. As in!

(A lot. Because Gavreel and I have so much in common)

Do you think Gav is sexy?

Funny is the new sexy?I guess? Hahaha!

Do you think Cai is sexy?

Of course! Yun lang! Naman po.

(Of course! That's it!)

In what way? (Rate for 1-10, indicate the sexiest part of your body)

Lips? 5 po? Sakto lang.

(My lips, it's a 5. Just enough)

How much of him are you in real life?

Hmmm. Sobra po. Marami talaga kaming pagkakapareho.

(Hmmm. We really have a lot in common.)

Did you know Elijah prior to doing this project?

Yes nagkasama nadin kami sa isang proyekto. At magkaibigan talaga kami.

(Yes we had a previous project. We are friends in real life)

What was your firstimpression of him?

Tahimik. Pero magaling na aktor kasi talaga tong si Elijah eh.

(Very meek. But Elijah is really a good actor.)

Do you think he’s doing a good job playing Cairo?

Naman! Hindi po mag-wowork lahat ng to, kung hindi din dahil sa kaniya.

(Of course! This wouldn't have worked if it weren't for him.)

If you were Gav, what would be the characteristics of your ideal guy?

Cute, matalino at maginoo pero medyo bastos.

(Cute, intelligent, gentlemanly but a little naughty.)

What’s your impression of Pearl’s character?

Cute!!!! Super cute talaga niya. Sobrang bagay si Adrianna sa role!

(Cute!!!! She is super cute! Adrianna was really fit for the role!)

Adrianna So has been lauded for her performance in this show, how important is she to Gav?

Hindi lang siya kay Gav importante, sa lahat ng characters. Kasi siya ang nagiging tulay namin ni Baby Cairo.

(She was not just important for Have, but for all the characters. It's because she was the bridge between me and my Baby Cairo.)

If you had one wish for Gav’s character, what would it be and why?

Wala nakong hihilingin pa, tingin ko. Tamang tama na yung timpla.

(I couldn't ask for anything more. I think he's just right.)

Fans are eager to see you end up together, cliche as it sounds, I want to ask you, has this show changed your perspective about love? What’s your message to

the fans ofthe show?

"Tingin ko hindi nagbago yung pananaw ko sa love, mas lalo lang akong naniwala na ang LOVE ay malaking part satin bilang mga tao, para maging proud, masaya, malaya at mabuhay."

"Gusto ko lang po magsalamat sa walang sawang suporta ninyo sa amin. Mahal ko kayong lahat!"

(I think my point of view about love didn't change, it made me believe even more and how big it is for us as humans. To be proud, to be happy, to live freely!)

(I would just like to thank you all for your support. I love you all!)

It was so nice and refreshing to hear him answer as Gav, no wonder a lot of people love Kokoy's character in the series. There are still a few more episodes left, I know you are excited for Part 7 this Friday, make sure you're there at 8pm. For fans of Adrianna So, I'll try to make arrangements to interview her perhaps on a later date!

Aside from this interview, we also talked to Elijah Canlas. Make sure you read that too in our next post! Stay tuned! 

PS. Thank you so much to MediaXChange and The IdeaFirst Company for helping us connect with Kokoy and Elijah! You guys rock!

 

BPO Queen Finals Tonight

 Had the chance to cover the BPO QUEEN preliminaries a couple of days ago. Today will be the finals which will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena 6PM and guest performers have names like Jake Zyrus, Joross Gamboa, Edgar Allan Guzman, Mark Bautista (who will also be the host) and international sensation Jessica Sanchez. I've also heard Morisette will be there but that has yet to be confirmed (maybe it's a surprise). 

The pre pageant basically will showcase these Queens in their Future wear, Evening Gowns and Swimsuits but I'll be only featuring the previous two because we have kids also reading my articles LOL. Anyway, it's going to be a big spectacle later and I hope my bets also are going to be able to win some awards, or perhaps the crown. The BPO Queen by the way is the nationwide beauty search for gays and transexuals in the BPO industry, so if you are working in one, chances are, you have a representative in this particular pageant. Tickets are still available at SM TICKETS if you don't have one yet.