STRAP salutes Heart and Pat

Ms Heart Diño for Chairperson and Ms Pat Bringas for Councilor of the University Student Council (USC) in the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman

STRAP, a non-profit organization that envisions a nurturing society that affirms, respects and upholds the dignity, the right to self-determination and good quality of life of all through the promotion of gender equality and self-expression, salutes the candidacies of Ms Heart Diño for Chairperson and Ms Pat Bringas for Councilor of the University Student Council (USC) in the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman for Academic Year 2012-2013.

While we are aware that much more still needs to be done towards the equality of men and women in the Philippines, the candidacies of Heart and Pat are testament to the progress that has been gained in the struggle for sexual rights in our country. As smart, highly capable and exemplary young leaders, they embody the best of the transpinay (transgender/transsexual Filipina).

STRAP believes that the increasing prominence of transpinays in politics, entertainment and the corporate world is not only a reflection of transpinay empowerment in the Philippines but also a recuperation of our society from the malady that is gender-based discrimination. May the candidacies of Heart and Pat contribute greatly to this healing process.

We are proud of you Heart and Pat! Mabuhay kayo at mabuhay ang transpinay!


This statement was prepared for STRAP by Vice Chairwoman Ms Kate Montecarlo and edited by Chairwoman Ms Naomi Fontanos.