STRAP turns 10: A decade of support, sorority and sisterhood

The Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP), the pioneer support group and human rights advocacy organization of transpinays (transgender/transsexual Filipinas) turns 10 in May 2012. To celebrate a decade of support, sorority and sisterhood, STRAP will hold three major events in three months (March, April & May 2012).

In March, in time for International Women's Month, STRAP will hold a photo exhibit at the Law School of the Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) Professional Schools in cooperation with the Ateneo Human Rights Center's Women's Desk. To be held on 5-9 March 2012, the exhibit will feature black-and-white photographs showcasing the beauty and diversity of STRAP members shot by renowned photographer Niccolo Cosme.

In April, STRAP will hold a social responsibility activity to benefit a charity of their choice. STRAP's 10th year anniversary celebrations culminate with the 2nd Sybil Awards on 19 May 2012. The Sybil Awards is named after one incarnation of the Great Mother, a goddess whose worship dates back to the Stone Age. Known by different names, she was called Sybil in various cultures. The Great Mother Sybil was venerated by transgender priestesses in pre-communal societies. STRAP's Sybil awards honor individuals, organizations, establishments, activities, programs, and other entities that, in their own way, promote the equality, acceptance, empowerment and dignity of transgender Filipinos.

For more information on these events, please contact Ms Naomi Fontanos, STRAP Chairwoman at strapmanila@gmail.com or through mobile +63920.2697607.


Written for STRAP by Chairwoman Ms Naomi Fontanos

Movie, reality show receive STRAP’s first Sybil Awards

22 May 2010—To close its month-long 8th year anniversary celebrations, STRAP held a General Assembly (GA) of members and the first ever Sybil Awards at Annabel’s Tomas Morato. The Sybil Awards is given to honor those who promote the equality, empowerment and acceptance of transgender/transsexual Filipinas or transpinays.



This year’s recipients include the indie film, The Amazing Truth About Queen Raquela and the hit reality TV show, Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Double Up. Both portrayed transpinays in a frank but respectful and dignified way.



Receiving the Sybil for Queen Raquela was the star of the movie herself, Raquela Rios who flew to Manila from Cebu for the awarding ceremony. The Sybil for PBB Double Up was accepted by one of its creative managers, Ted Boborol. In attendance were PBB Double Up housemates Rica Paras, Paul Jake Castillo and Melai Cantiveros.