The first national pageant for lesbians, dubbed Tomboy Philippines 2024, was launched with the presentation of 30 official candidates in Quezon City on Sept. 14.

Spearheaded by Chit Reyes and supported by Cowee Santos, CEO of Tree House Real Estate and Ventures, the pageant is a bold initiative to celebrate and empower the lesbian community in the Philippines.

"The pageant's mission is clear: to elevate the diverse talents, intelligence, and beauty of lesbians through a platform that fosters inclusivity, equality, and growth. By emphasizing authenticity and talents beyond mere physical appearance, Tomboy Philippines is committed to challenging stereotypes and promoting societal acceptance," Reyes said.

Reyes recalled the journey of the lesbian pageant.

"Nag-start ako noong 2011, Mr. Femme, with Wilbert Tolentino. Siya ang nag-conduct ng gay contest sa bar niya. Sabi ko sa kanya, 'Bakit hindi tayo mag-conduct ng lesbian pageant? Try natin," the confessed lesbian mom said. And the rest is history.

The purpose of Tomboy Philippines is not only to showcase talent but to affirm the rights and presence of lesbians in the public eye.

"Ang layunin namin ay maging worldwide at manggaling dito sa Pilipinas. Para maipakita na ang equal rights ay dapat makamtan ng bawa't isa," she said. "Sa matagal na panahon, gay pageants lang ang talamak. Panahon na para makilala ang talent ng mga lesbians."

Reyes shared a powerful message for participants and the community.

"Mga tomboy, matagal na nating ipinaglalaban and equality. Malayo pa pero malapit na. Makakamit din natin ang 'equality rights' na hinahanap natin," she added.

This year's official candidates: Anntoi Deloso, South Cotabato; Louie Ele, Nueva Ecija; Rinoa Nicolas, Binangonan, Rizal; Jhan Nanit, Antipolo, Rizal; Bana Daranciang, Sta. Rosa, Laguna; Rhed Sasaki, Zambales; JC Lapitan, Batangas; Keith Martin, General Santos City; Jhes Remedio, Muntilupa City; Gele Pablo, Navotas City;

Thea Lising, Angono, Rizal; Banwar Taclibon, Bacoor, Cavite; Armi De Leon, Morong, Rizal; Mosh dela Cruz, Camarines Sur; Miel Cinco, Angeles City; Ace Tenero, Taguig City; Mitzi Ancog, Iligan City; BF Delos Reyes, Bulakan, Bulacan; Elei Reyes, Quezon City; Alliah Briones, Oriental Mindoro;

Gel Grayda, Cainta, Rizal; Ac Cemetara, Pasay City; Bodi Francisco, Abra; Emzz Bernardino, Tondo, Manila; Aj Alecida, Valencia City; Kim Siao, Valenzuela City; Arvy Bodlong, Albay; Prince Obleada, Quezon City; Yanyan Purification, San Pedro, Laguna; and Phao Faraon, Malabon City.

The preliminary competition of Tomboy Philippines 2024 pageant will be held at One 690 Entertainment Bar while the grand coronation will be staged at the Music Museum on Oct. 19.