SIREYNA MAGAZINE MAIDEN ISSUE

Reigning Queen of

Maison de la Jet Salcedo Empowered

Dive deep. Celebrate your true hues.

ss once. Back ng onto this university, I together – a magazine that would celebrate our kaleidoscope of colors and stories.

Like a hidden mermaid fin waiting to shimmer and transform, this dream was a treasured secret of mine that I held close to my heart. My passion project I hold dear with the desire to be seen and to break free from limitations. Perhaps that's why, just like countless queer kids who twirled with pillowcase tails, dreaming of being Ariel in Little Mermaid, I once held the same fantastical aspiration – to be seen in my truest hues.

But as I grew, the Sireynas, as society would tell me, more often than not, fel short of that fantastical dream. Status quo often paints them as people of danger, disgusting figures in the society – a stark contrast to the freedom and joy we envisioned when we, queers, are still innocent and wouldn’t mind expressing ourselves wholeheartedly to the world.

For too long, "Sireyna'' has been a weapon against us, used to silence an belittle vibrant queer expressions. But, hold no more as we turn these narratives in our favor. Yes, we can't rewrite fairy tales, but we can rewrite the meaning of Sireyna.

Sireyna isn't a threat, it's a crown. A crown for every hue on the spectrum, a celebration of the power of expressing your authentic self. Drawing inspiration from the unwavering spirit beautifully captured in Gloc 9's anthemic track "Sirena", "bandera ko'y 'di tutumba", [my flag will not fall] we stand firm. These are our stories to share, and Sireyna is our platform. We will never back down because in the first place there is no wrong in us.

As we wrote a spectrum of celebratory narratives from the queer community, may this magazine serve as an act of defiance. We reclaim "Sireyna," transforming it from a societal slur into an anthem. Because Sireyna was always ours, it was just society trying to tell us otherwise.

ASSOCIATE KLYDE LENCIOCO

There is a courage that lies beneath fear. Courage that shines akin to rhinestones that are carefully placed on a headpiece. It shimmers like a queen's crown which stood against the whirlwind of storms, of the waves of trials and tribulations.

Coming from a rocky presentation of almost performing in Iloilo City's drag paradise, B Lifestyle Complex, located at Cuartero, Jaro the following year, Miz Teyt has stood against all of those. She was a bird with liberty in her wings on sight but naysayers shackled her, locking her brilliance dormant. "I cried that the people whom I thought would believe in me were the first ones to snug out the idea of me performing. But I ought to myself, I will release my inhibitions because this is who I am and this is what I'm going to be."

BECOMING MIZ TEYT

Miz Teyt's origins can be traced back to her childhood days spent playing with the sticks tied to their broken sliding window back in her hometown. "Together with my younger sibling, who happens to also be queer, we tend to use those sticks as our baton. We would snatch the footwear of our cousin and pretend we are the leaders from a majorette corps. At a very young age, around 6 or 7 years old, I found myself drawn to performing songs by female pop stars and I can vividly recall improvising makeshift wigs using bath towels and draping bed blankets around myself as dresses, together with my sibling, emulating the glamorous personas of these female artists lipsyncing in a three-decade old antiquated mirror in our home.”

"I would try the boots and my younger sibling wears heels. That is how we know that we are flamboyant from the very beginning." Miz Teyt says. "Now, my younger sibling, together with her trans associate, who is our childhood friend, is here in Guimaras to paint my face and style me. Who, by the way, traveled all the way from Roxas City, my hometown, for this experience of a lifetime."

Vastly different from her supposed transformation from last year, Miz Teyt is certain for the branding she sets for. Being a fan of beloved childhood characters — Barbie and Ariel — she is sure that she has a popstar siren princess aesthetic with nodes of big structured wig drawing inspirations from Drag Race France's Kam Hugh, US's almost identical season 10 sisters Miz Cracker and Aquaria, and Philippines' own Brigiding and superstar Marina Summers who recently starred as the production number’s star performer at the 2024 Miss Universe Philippines coronation night.

“ I ought to myself, I will release my inhibitions because this is who I am and this is what I'm going to be."

"...Find the hue in you. There are many colors in the spectrum, live you life loud and proud. Shine like a supernova for there is a star in you.”

ambitious drag queen extraordinaire

phenomenon Drag Race, the reality TV show host and produce by the World's Most Powerful Drag Queen, the 14 Primetime Emmy awardee

iterations to other countries, one of which is Drag Race Philippines airing yearly which is hosted by Mama Pao, Philippine TV personality Paolo Ballesteros' drag persona, sometime

When asked about her forefront vision, Miz Teyt answers that she wishes to touch her audiences to find

who believed in you even if you—at times—falter to believe in yourself anymore.

Wardrobe and Style including wig and accessories

ABCDEF Beatrice Hair and Make-up

Mark Jaen Ashley Alcones

Model Miz Teyt

Model ABCDEF Beatrice

Shines to Shablams

Drag makeup is all about creating a dramatic and exaggerated version of yourself. It's a chance to unleash your creativity and have fun with color, texture, and technique. Sireyna curated step-by-step guide to get you started. Practice

ABCDEF Beatrice & Viper hosting on the mainstage

ABCDEF Beatrice lipsyncing to Agnes’ ‘Release Me’

Jada Bvlgari V performs a lipsync rendition of Janet Jackson’s ‘Nasty’

Contour like you mean it, girl! It's all about snatched cheekbones and a sculpted jawline. Trust me.

Stick Glue (as shown in the photo) + Loose Powder combo “tucks out” your natural brows. Use an eyebrow pencil/liquid eyeliner to draw your newlyformed drag “kilay”

Like Coco Chanel

and create a look

Drag Queens shown in spread

ABCDEF Beatrice

Jada Bvlgari V Viper

West Drag Queen’s Jada Bvlgari V & ABCDEF Beatrice glamming up for a Saturday Drag Show at B-Lifestyle Complex.

SPOTLIGHT

Epiphanies Under the Curtain Call

“Honestly, if you told the younger Kenneth that he would be a theater actor when he goes to college, his anxious self with stage fright would laugh at you.”

WORDS, PHOTOGRAPHY, CREATIVE DIRECTION ELLE DIAZ LAYOUT JP JAEN

Kenneth Gales

The lights dimmed as the curtains rose. The echoes of bickering ceased, replaced by a deafening silence. Some shifted uncomfortably in their seats, while others gripped the armrests tightly, fully aware that they were in for a wild ride. Three. Two. One. Action!

Kenneth Gales has always been drawn to the world of art and expression. With a happy-go-lucky personality, he often dreams of being many things at once, if only that were possible. Behind the curtains, his life is filled with aspirations that he can only whisper to the stars, silently wishing his hands would be enough to reach them. Every time he grapples with challenges, there’s a voice inside his head saying, “FAKE IT ‘TILL YOU MAKE IT!” and often, he does.

“Honestly, if you told the younger Kenneth that he would be a theater actor when he goes to college, his anxious self with stage fright would laugh at you.” It was one of his dreams, but he never imagined that it could come true. As a child, he had mixed experiences with school plays—sometimes mediocre, occasionally failing. Yet, when he was alone in his room, his imagination lingered on the possibilities. He would enact scenarios, playing different roles from princess to fairy to monster, reciting lines using his quick wit and wide imagination. These moments were his early forays into the world of theater, where he could channel his emotions and creativity without the prying eyes of people who wouldn’t understand.

Portraying Josie in "Maria Labo: The Missing Chapters” by Teatro Dagami at WVSU Cultural Center last March 21, was both a challenge and an epiphany for Kenneth. It was his first major role, and Josie was a transwoman—a role that was far from Kenneth's own experience. He was filled with doubts, questioning his ability to do justice to Josie's character and represent his trans sisters authentically. Playing Josie felt like reaching the dream he only used to whisper to the stars. Finally, it was within arm’s reach. Reciting his lines to the audience felt like shouting to the world. This is who I am, this is my dream, this is my victory.

A profound connection to the character Josie came to Kenneth during the performance. Despite the differences in their identities, he and Josie shared a common experience of discrimination. Josie, a simple woman with dreams of independence and acceptance, mirrored Kenneth's struggles against the cruel realities of our society. “We shared the anger towards the cruelty of society, but I think at some point, we also shared an ounce of hope for change despite everything.” This shared sense of injustice and hope for change allowed Kenneth to portray Josie with heartfelt authenticity. The role brought back memories of the harshness Kenneth faced growing up and his efforts to remain gentle despite it all. Playing Josie became an integral part of his identity, a lesson he would carry throughout his life.

Kenneth envisions a future where LGBTQ+ stories are told with the same depth and respect as any other narrative. He wants to see more inclusive representations that go beyond clichés, highlighting the community's multifaceted nature. His journey in theater is not just about personal growth; it's about contributing to a broader cultural shift toward acceptance and understanding.

“I want to see the queer community portrayed in a different light. We are dreamers, who are capable of much more just like Josie. We are multifaceted individuals who have so many stories to tell, and who have a variety of colors to offer, and we hope to see more of those shine onstage.”

Despite playing multiple roles and vanquishing numerous obstacles in his life, Kenneth Gales continues to be a dreamer with countless aspirations still to whisper and achieve. Portraying Josie was his epiphany—a profound wake-up call, a poignant reminder. The world can be brutally unkind to those who dare to be different. Through Josie, Kenneth reclaimed the narrative, asserting himself as the heroine of his own story.

“I want to see the queer community portrayed in a different light. We are dreamers, who are capable of much more just like Josie. We are multifaceted individuals who have so many stories to tell, and who have a variety of colors to offer, and we hope to see more of those shine onstage.”

LAYOUT

LAKAN [TULA] was formally introduced to the world in January 2023. LAKAN TULA was a rebranding of my poetry account just because it made sense for me to establish this alter ego of some sort, to separate the writer [LAKAN] from the person [Mar].

What differs LAKAN from Krisvimar?

LAKAN is more reserved, I would say. He likes to be prim and proper and he is the well-spoken version of Mar. He’s the 'sadboi' that always ponders on his thoughts. Mar is just the funny and no-holds-barred individual who likes to connect with people. Mar would dance to a song and LAKAN would focus on deciphering the meaning of the song—that is their polarity.

What is LAKAN TULA's typical writing style?

Well, I love writing confessional and personal poems because it is like muscle memory to me, I can finish a personal poem in ten minutes, that’s it. Poetry has been a channel for me to air out my frustrations in a very healthy and creative way. It has helped me in remembrance and reflection. If I have the time to challenge myself, I always try to write about what’s happening. Recently, I joined a friend’s daily writing challenge and with the six days of participation from me, I wrote pieces about the Palestine genocide, the situation of Pura Luka Vega, Killua and stray animals’ unlawful abuse, and things of the sort. LAKAN is literally a peak into Krisvimar’s head and so it’s rowdy up here.

LAKAN TULA is part of a published book that was recently signed. Narrate your journey from inclusion to the book signing event.

Last February, a soft landing.'s first collection “A Quiet Unfolding” was finally released. I am a co-author alongside Dawn Lanuza and Layla S. Tanjutco among others. I was there during the Philippine Book Festival 2024 held at the World Trade Center Manila. I didn’t have a lot of time to stay but I signed some copies, and let me tell ya, it was such a surreal feeling. To sign a book at a book fair? These functions are literally heaven to my younger self and so that was one of those pinch-me moments for me, for sure.

Aside from 'A Quiet Unfolding', what are the books you have had authorship of some sort?

Before “A Quiet Unfolding”, the first published work where I saw my name, at that time I just went as Krisvimar. LAKAN was still not born. I was a contributor for Creatives with Leni [Robredo] x Novice Magazine’s Volume II of Kulay Rosas ang Bukas book entitled “Panahon ng Paruparo”, where I shared the spotlight with my good friend Daniela Melecio. And for my first solo published work as LAKAN, a zine has my authorship, published by 8Letters Bookstore and Publishing, entitled “Survival Sadness”, it had 27 pages of pain. With three titles under my belt, I would say, more to come please!

Last question for you Mar, what do you envision for LAKAN TULA in the next few years to come?

Maybe in places other writers have not been? Is that too ambitious for y’all’s tastes? Kidding aside, poetry is something I can confidently say that I’m good at, because it’s a medium anyone can be good at, but I don’t plan on resting with that, my mind is 'malikot' so I try to venture out and explore. Maybe in a different form, Mar would be Period [his rapper alter ego] and be a rapstar. Maybe in the future, LAKAN finds himself filed under a screenwriting manuscript. I plan to reveal my brain more to people because there’s no point in hiding my thoughts when I have curated them to be seen.

REIGNING QUEEN OF THE

COMPLEX

In the vibrant heart of Iloilo City lies a beacon of inclusivity and innovation that shines brightly. At the helm of this beacon is a visionary and an entrepreneur who has reigned supreme and turned dreams into reality.

WORDS ELLE DIAZ LAYOUT JP JAEN

Facade of The B Lifestyle Complex

In 2016, Roy Betita realized his dream of opening B Lifestyle Complex, a multifaceted establishment designed to cater to various needs and preferences that took him two and a half years to plan. This was more than just a business venture; it was a personal milestone he aimed to hit before turning 30.

Their path is also marked by academic excellence, having graduated with a degree in Business Administration, majoring in Marketing from the University of the Philippines in 2008, going on to earn a Master’s in Business Administration from Ateneo de Manila University’s Graduate School of Business before turning 30.

But behind the bricks and mortar, the real story is one of a queen with a mission. For nearly eight years, Roy has been the General Manager of B Complex, leading with a commitment to inclusivity and equality.

Being openly gay since grade school, Roy has ensured that B Complex is not just a business but a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Maybe 10 years back, we were not as open minded, as liberated, and as accepting of the LGBTQ+ community so I think we have a long way to go,” Roy reflects.

When asked if he intended B Complex to be a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, Roy’s answer is clear: "Yes, it is no secret that I've been openly gay since grade school."

From the start, he embedded this advocacy into the company handbook, promoting equality regardless of age, gender, religion, social status, or into the company handbook, promoting equality regardless of age, gender, religion,

social status, or physical appearance. He even ensured that all employees underwent SOGIE (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Expression) training before opening.

Supporting the LGBTQ+ community hasn't been without its challenges. The popularity of drag shows at B Complex has brought both praise and criticism. “We received messages calling us names and saying they wouldn't visit us anymore because of our support for the LGBTQ+ community,” Roy shares.

Despite this, he stands firm. “In the first place, we don't have to defend why we're LGBTQ+ friendly, why we're LGBTQ+ welcoming. We don't find the need to justify— to have a press release explaining why we have a rainbow flag."

During the pandemic, B Complex was one of the first private companies in Iloilo City to launch relief operations, raising over half a million pesos in PPE and cash for hospitals. The company also steps up during fires and other emergencies, supporting not just LGBTQ+ causes but the wider community.

“I’m proud that B Complex isn’t just about making money. It’s socially aware,” Roy explains. His background as a student leader at UP, where he was president of a socio-civic political organization and vice president of the student council, has deeply influenced his commitment to giving back. "Amo man na siguro ang biggest achievement ko nga ang B Complex indi lang siya business for profit, it’s for a cause."

His achievements also include pioneering drag shows in Iloilo and securing sponsorships from major companies like GT Malls, China Bank, and Metro Pacific for these events. "I love the idea nga damo kami partners nga LGBTQ+ organizations. Kung may ara sila events or after parties, by default, diri ila venue.”

To Roy, B Complex isn't just bricks and mortar; it's a living, breathing testament to his belief in creating a safe inclusive space for everyone. His advocacy embodies the essence of humanity—connecting hearts, inspiring change, and leaving a lasting legacy of empathy and empowerment, making him a true trailblazer in every sense.

Interior B Lifestyle Complex’s Barn Bistro

A typical audience view during one of B Lifestyle Complex’s drag weekend.

HANZ SIRILAN IN THE LENS OF

WORDS KLYDE LENCIOCO LAYOUT JP JAEN

Ihave loved looking at and appreciating the beauty in the things around me. I was one of those kids who took photos of every sunset, every flower, and every other thing I found pleasing to the eye. I wanted to capture the beauty I found in my surroundings, in a way, recording and immortalizing them.”

A multifaceted gem showcasing his talent and passion in various fields, Hanz Sirilian boasts a background in the sciences and a deep love for the environment, health, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, having found a way to channel his caring nature into the art of photography.

Hanz captures not only the beauty of his surroundings but also the genuine emotions of his subjects through his main arsenal; the camera lens & inventiveness. With a recent debut of his studio, this esteemed photographer plans to push the boundaries of his creativity and experiment with lighting techniques, further enhancing his photography.

Hanz's affinity for photography stemmed from his innate ability to appreciate and find beauty in the world around him from a young age as he was captivated by the colors of sunsets, the intricate details of flowers, and the allure of nature. Hanz desires to immortalize these moments and explore the possibilities of capturing moments and memories.

This photography journey began with a simple smartphone. Hanz started capturing mesmerizing images of plants, landscapes, and celestial bodies and as Hanz further refined these skills, recognition through his viral moon photos on social media platforms gained engagements and praises.

Hanz’s lenswork extended beyond social media, with the photographs being used by the Iloilo City Government to

promote LGBTQIA+ rights during the Pride Parade. Additionally, Hanz was recognized as one of the top participants in Mr. Manny Librodo's prestigious photography contest, Pitik III.

In Hanz's studio, the potential are limitless This photographer plans to delve deeper into the art of photography. Controlled environments offer the liberty and opportunity to experiment with various elements, but Hanz recognizes that light is the essence of any photograph. Hanz aims to master lighting techniques and explore how it interacts with different materials, angles, and shadows.

With the possibility of never-ending subjects in life, Hanz is one gem that can illuminate the world with its own elements and reflections, like a rainbow reflected from the Earth’s own skin.

Lenswork of Hanz Sirilan during 2023

Iloilo Pride Month celebration and coronation of Miss Universe Iloilo City’s Alexie Brooks published in HS Imagery

Hanz’s entry to Manny Librodo's prestigious photography contest, Pitik III.

Maison de la J e t Salcedo

Gaze upon the pieces of the finest fashion maven of Iloilo, where classic style meets modern craftsmanship

WORDS AND CREATIVE DIRECTION AXES VILLAR

PHOTOGRAPHY AND LAYOUT JP JAEN

ASSOCIATE EDITORS/PHOTOGRAPHERS KLYDE LENCIOCO ELLE DIAZ

Model Axes Villar wears a Jet Salcedo modern noir tuxedo paired with a sheer see-through innerwear and an oversized black flair pants.

All Clothes and accessories by JET SALCEDO

Post-processing JP JAEN

Model Elle Diaz stuns in a JET SALCEDO a fringed monochrome tube mini dress

ALL CLOTHES INCLUDING ACCESSORIES JET SALCEDO

POST-PROCESSING JP JAEN, AXES VILAR

Metallic, black, and bold — the colors of night, with Swarovski on his fingers— as this icon and definitive designer has brought fashion a tier higher through sheer ingenuity— Jet Salcedo, a jack of all trades; with an affinity not only for couture but also for hair and make-up, accessories, and the craftsmanship of shoes.

The designs of this style maven will forever be cemented in the annals of the fashion world, as they already dressed and styled renowned personalities like Iloilo City’s Alexie Brooks and television actress Bianca Manalo. Jet Salcedo even did the faces of the country’s top executive, the late President Noynoy Aquino III and Joseph Estrada.

For starters, Jet’s designs almost always revolve around gothic inspirations, with belief that the color of black plays a crucial role in the creation of a distinctive Salcedo design. Likewise, the inspiration that bends ideas into reality also plays around in the form of androgenism as another inspiration when creating his coutures—blurring the line between femininity and masculinity.

In parallel, being openly accepting that they are part of the LGBTQIA and their dreams being preserved by the love that Jet’s parents gave, nothing could hold him back from owning the world. Jet Salcedo is proudly making a statement—that as a designer it is okay that other people might not like your creation and what matters is you should own your works because at the end of the day, it is ourselves that matters. This leaves a lasting legacy in his wake that will forever etch the fashion scene.

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL.

The craftsmanship of Jet Salcedo embodies their creed of nothing but exquisite excellence blurring the line between the boundaries of masculinity and femininity.

Empowered Ever-evolving &

WORDS, PHOTOGRAPHY, CREATIVE DIRECTION KLYDE LENCIOCO LAYOUT/ASSOCIATE EDITORS AXES VILLAR JP JAEN

ince 2004, when he relocated to Iloilo in search of new opportunities, Yep-yep Mesina has dedicated himself to the world of fashion and design with a wide array of stunning wedding gowns and off-the-rack and modern Filipiniana pieces, his signature style Trinidad.

“I owe it to myself and to those around me to express my passion in the best way possible’’

Every design is intricately envisioned with himself as the bearer, ensuring that each piece exudes confidence, poise, or swag, sometimes all three at once. Yepyep’s brand chases themes of inclusivity, creating clothing that effortlessly allows individuals to express themselves. Trinidad pieces and most of his general works serve not only as complements to but also as ideals for all genders and groups.

Yep-yep’s collection can be found in the Designers Hub on the 2nd floor of the Festive Walk Mall and major fashion events like Salapid. He is also a celebrated designer affiliated with the Designer's Guild Iloilo and Designers Circle Philippines through his impeccable craftsmanship and fusion of intrepid elements and colors.

1 Yep-yep Mesina’s Modern-laced, cream Filipiniana top with black flower embroidery

2 Yep-yep Mesina’s Modern blue Filipiniana with horizontal details and pleated sleeves

3 Yep-yep Mesina’s Intricately embroidered, beige Filipiniana dress with ribbon flourishing and hand-woven salakot

4 Yep-yep Mesina’s Modern-cut barong in vibrant yellow

5 Yep-yep Mesina’s Modern red-black barong with Pepita-variant sleeve detailing

With appreciation and respect for both local and international designers, Yep-yep continuously seeks to evolve as an artist. He acknowledges influences from renowned designers such as Mark Bumgarner, Rajo Laurel, and Furne Amato. By absorbing their craft, he adds to his creative individuality, pushing the boundaries of his own design aesthetic.

With a keen eye for the blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics, Yep-yep Mesina maintains a steadfast commitment to feminist empowerment and embracing queer identities as he continues to build his legacy, his fusion of boldness, feminism, and inclusivity, undoubtedly trailblazing an indelible mark in the world of fashion.

Former Vice President Leni Robredo already wore some of Yep-yep Mesina pieces for her courtesy visits to various government and non-government programs (see 2 and 5)

AXES VILLAR Associate Editor/ Creative Director

Elusive in nature, wide in vision. The jack of all trades whose eyes for fashion is gilded by style and tailored flair.

éditeur

JP JAEN Editor-in-Chief

A ball of sunshine personified. Illuminates the room with their spontaneous spirit. Always thirsting for a thrilling adventure that ticks their curated list of passion projects in between tight schedules.

ELLE DIAZ Executive Associate

A symphony of elegance and strength. Her presence is a poetic dance of mystery and grace—a queen of shadows and light.

KLYDE LENCIOCO Managing Editor

Peaches & cream. Sweeter than sweet. With chocolate cheeks and chocolate wings.

acknowl

We at SIREYNA would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the incredible contributors who made this issue possible. This issue celebrates the vibrant and diverse queer experience and we are honored to platform the voices and stories of such talented and inspiring individuals. A special thank you to the designers, production associates, and makeup artists who poured their hearts into creating this beautiful and impactful issue.

At SIREYNA we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels seen and heard. We believe in the power of representation and the importance of celebrating the beauty of our queer community. We encourage our readers to join us in this mission.

Let's continue to celebrate the hues that makes us ourselves. In SIREYNA, we slay, soar, and shine. SIREYNA is ours!

Sparkle like a rainbow that rises above the waves of life.

Twisted Strand’s NONCHALANT bracelet in serenity haze