JUNE is LGBTQ Pride month and this was because in 1968, a group who patronized the Stonewall Inn in New York took a stand against the ongoing harassment of the LGBTs. At that time New York laws prohibited homosexuality in public, and private businesses and gay establishments and the group stood up against these laws.
Though the Pride Month is also celebrated in the Philippines, the country is yet to have any genuine law that supports them like same-sex union. In effect, LGBTQ couples go to other countries to get married if not engage in marriage rites in the country that are merely symbolic and have no legal bearing. One of those who has left the country is RAIN BATINGANA. I am giving my space today for his story in his own words: I was born and raised in Davao City, I am the fourth child in our family. My parents are very religious and I went to a Catholic school during elementary. While growing up, I knew I was different and was always bullied by my guy friends for being effeminate.
I remember that as a child I would lock myself in my sister's room and play with her Barbie or I would listen to Whitney Houston songs and sing along with it. My mother would sneak in and would sometimes catch me dressing up Barbie. I did watch Power Rangers only because I had a crush on Power Ranger Red.
My journey as a trans began in 2015 when I decided to live as a woman. Transitioning to become a woman was not a shocking moment for my family because they already knew I very feminine. My transition even brought us closer to each other. My relationships with my Mom and Dad got better and I have become much closer to my siblings and relatives. I could say that I am now the best version of myself.
To live as a transgender woman implies great courage to face discrimination and hate amongst people who are not oriented with our sexuality. I've been through a lot of hardships and trials to live the life I've always wanted and that is to become a woman.
I am with Slay Model Management, the first transgender model agency in America. I have done runway shows in San Francisco and walked for the LA fashion week and New York Fashion Week. I was also on the cover of Pump magazine, a local magazine in California and did a national advertising campaign for AirBnb. Last year I married the man of my dreams who loved me and accepted the person I have become.
I did transition because I wanted to be happy in my life. I have always felt uncomfortable with my own skin being male. When I transitioned to become a woman it was the happiest feeling. It felt so good that I was able to express myself in the way I've always wanted to be. Right now I know I am living truthfully and being my authentic self.