Bakla

Philippine LGBTQ+ protester during 2019 Pride March

Potters at work. The one on the right is a man in woman's garb (Itneg people, 1922)

Leni Republika rally Malolos Sports Complex Vice Ganda (Bulacan; 04-27-2022) (cropped)

SOGIE LGBT rally at People Power Monument

Bakla is a term used in the Philippines to refer to individuals who are male at birth but identify with a feminine gender expression. This term is part of the broader cultural context of gender diversity within the Philippines, which recognizes a range of gender identities beyond the binary male and female. The concept of bakla can be seen as intersecting with, but distinct from, Western notions of gay, transgender, and queer identities.

Understanding Bakla

The bakla identity encompasses a wide range of gender expressions and roles, from individuals who adopt traditionally feminine dress and behavior to those who may not visibly express their gender non-conformity. Bakla individuals may or may not choose to undergo medical interventions such as hormone therapy or surgery as part of their gender expression. The identity is deeply rooted in Filipino culture and carries its own unique set of cultural practices, languages (e.g., Swardspeak or gay lingo), and societal roles.

Cultural Context

Historically, pre-colonial Philippine societies recognized multiple gender roles, including roles similar to the bakla, which were respected and integrated into community life. The arrival of Spanish colonization and the imposition of Roman Catholic values disrupted these indigenous gender systems, leading to a more binary and heteronormative understanding of gender. Despite this, the bakla identity has persisted and evolved, reflecting both resistance to and accommodation of colonial and post-colonial influences.

Bakla and Religion

The relationship between the bakla community and the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines is complex. While the Church's teachings officially oppose homosexuality and gender non-conformity, many bakla individuals are active participants in Catholic religious practices. This participation is a testament to the deeply ingrained nature of Catholicism in Filipino culture, as well as the ability of bakla individuals to carve out spaces for themselves within this context.

Social Perception and Challenges

The perception of bakla individuals in Philippine society is ambivalent. On one hand, bakla people are often visible in the media and entertainment industry, sometimes celebrated for their artistic talents and humor. On the other hand, they can face discrimination, marginalization, and violence. Legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philippines are limited, and societal acceptance varies widely across different regions and communities.

Contemporary Issues

In recent years, there has been increased visibility and activism around LGBTQ+ rights in the Philippines, with the bakla community playing a significant role in these movements. Issues such as anti-discrimination legislation, marriage equality, and access to gender-affirming healthcare have been central to these efforts. The bakla identity continues to evolve, reflecting both global influences and the specific cultural and historical context of the Philippines.

See Also

• LGBT culture in the Philippines
• Gender identity
• Transgender rights in the Philippines
• Swardspeak