4th Binuhat Festival: Mindanao's Biggest Gay Festival

Friday, July 15, 2011

ONE of the unique traits of the booming Tagum City is that it celebrates a festival every month (14 festivals and counting). What is even more compelling is that it gives a special tribute to the gay community by celebrating their freedom of choice and lifestyle through what could be Mindanao's biggest and longest gathering of gaiety (or gay-ty) among the third sex.

"Binuhat Festival", translated as "gay and uniquely created in the society", splashes a rainbow over the new economic hub of Tagum City on July 27 to 31, 2011 in various performing areas of the city. This is the only huge activity being supported by the local government and the private sector where gay rights are being recognized along with their valuable contribution to the socio-cultural and economic developments of the locality.

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Featured activities are Mardi Gras Parada (costume parade) Queen of the World (gay beauty pageant), X-Trim Fun GAYmes (gay sports adventure); Binuhat Got Talent (talents showcase); Night of Fashion (fashion show); GAY: The Musicale (gay musical concert); CHAR DANCE (gay lingo cheer dance competition) and a lot more.

The City of Tagum Tourism Council spearheaded by Mrs. Alma L. Uy (wife of City Mayor Rey T. Uy) continues to promote the different tourism, arts and cultural events, while the City Government of Tagum provides beneficial programs to various sectors in the community, "We don't have natural spots as destinations but we make our people as a unique destination in Mindanao. So we celebrate music, dance, sports, traditions and now gay festival. If we develop people and celebrate their contributions, they will continue to give prosperity to our place, rich or poor; young or old; Muslim, Christian or Lumad; male or female; gay or lesbian. All are equal and important, therefore we should recognize them, because they will extend peace to our place," said Mrs. Uy.

According to Mr. Darwin F. Suyat, MaEM, Festival Event Chairperson and President of Tagum City Gay Association, Inc.: "It is our 4th year of convening different gay members in Mindanao and allowing them to express the freedom of their choice regardless of their status; providing them with a venue to meet and greet other colleagues. We are part of society's development and progress, and should be recognized and given due respect for our contributions."

Binuhat Festival's 4th season of merriment is a community's celebration of artistic expression and a chance to participate in a costume parade, beauty pageant, games and other competitions.

Interested parties may visit www.tagumcity.gov.ph to find out more about Binuhat Festival, or you may email tagumcity_tourism@yahoo.com.

(Email writer to jojiealcantara@gmail.com or visit web www.pbase.com/jojiealcantara)