October 2020 Issue
NEWS NEWS
Mujer President Toni Gee (rightmost) holds the banner, along with two government officials during the signing of the anti-discrimkination ordinance in Zamboanga City. Photo by @MujerLGBT
arguments and interpellations as a result of clashing beliefs and dissenting opinions that are rooted form radical belief, not only from the members of the council, but the general populace.
Rainbow Flag waves in the Asia's Latin City written by Denssel Tolentino and Brixson Julian Mujer LGBT Organization Inc. prides itself for being one of the prime movers in pushing for the Anti-Discrimination Ordinance (ADO) in Zamboanga City, after having been pending for two long years. This feat adds only to the list of the accomplished causes of Mujer in ending discrimination and advocating for equal rights in the city. Mujer sees the signing of the orFrom page 1: "Bagani bounces back..." barriers in challenging times like the COVID-19 crisis,” shared Butch Lavaro, one of Bagani Community Center’s pioneer volunteers. On October 24, twelve enthusiastic people joined the community center’s orientation for volunteers. In an orientation packed with activities and discussions, the volunteers from Batch Kantutay learned about HIV 101, SOGIESC, and HIV testing to prepare as volunteers of the Bacolod-based center. Aside from honing their skills and knowledge, they also interacted with current volunteers to learn more about the life of a volunteer in the center. Lavaro hopes that with the skills and training, the twelve new volunteers will be ready to face the ‘new normal’ with Bagani Community Center.
dinance as progress in the readiness of the city to embrace change, and the people's acceptance to persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity and expression (SOGIE). On October 14, Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco, together with Vice Mayor, Hon. Mayor Meng Agan, signed the Comprehensive ADO. Prior to its approval, it has gone through a series of stringent oral
Mujer believes for instance that contrary to what most people argue, the ADO specifically the provisions that highlight the rights of persons of diverse SOGIE, do not hamper on spiritual freedom of those who disagree as it only amplifies the values of the equality- which is human dignity in the form of compassion, respect, and reverence to all persons. For Mujer, this success is a testament that persistence in the face of adversity can spark change. Together with other local organizations, Mujer is immensely grateful to those who supported the passage of the ADO, especially to Hon. Lilibeth Macrohon Nuño, who authored the said ordinance. "It is a long and arduous road ahead to see its consistent implementation, but it would not hurt to look back and appreciate the trail we once thought we could not blaze. Indeed, there is hope for our motherland!," Mujer expressed.
From page 1: "TuloyPH: A Community... contest run for two weeks and winners were announced during the culmination event on October 25. All in all, nine entries qualified for the digital art contest. Winners are as follows: Art Millen Dondon (1st place), Katrina Tobias (2nd place), Randy Bergantino (3rd place), and Katrina Tobias (Social Media Star). Visit @FlourishCircle to see other artworks. LoveYourself volunteer Mark Averilla along with fellow mental health advocate Nykko Bautista hosted the culmination event. The event featured star studded performers such as The ADDLIB, Sasaya, Claudia Barretto, Janina Vela, Indigo Pai, Katrina Velarde, Yuki Ito, Roj Cortez, Sa’Tin, and Ebe Dancel. Organizations and personalities promoting mental health awareness also spoke
during the event, including Your Millenial Psychologist Riyan Portuguez, Talang Dalisay, DIWA Mental Health, Silakbo PH, Philippine Mental Health Association Davao Chapter, Tawag Paglaum, Dr. Bev Azucena, Dr. Frances Prescilla Cuevas, and Vice President Leni Robredo. Deemed relevant especially during this time of crisis, the campaign did not only spread awareness about mental health but also encouraged individuals to access professional help and services. TuloyPH: A Community in Symphony was made possible with its partners: SKPA, PhilHealth, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Macare, Frontrow Cares, and Champion Community Centers Network. Powered by Spaces.MNL, Owl Right Studios, and Talang Dalisay.
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