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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Pageant organizer Chit Reyes admits: 'Hindi pa rin tanggap ang lesbian community sa Pilipinas'

Pageant organizer Chit Reyes admits: 'Hindi pa rin tanggap ang lesbian community sa Pilipinas'

Published Oct 25, 2025 09:23 am
Tomboy Philippines pageant organizer Chit Reyes
Tomboy Philippines pageant organizer Chit Reyes

Chit Reyes, organizer of Tomboy Philippines national pageant, has vowed to continue empowering and celebrating the lesbian community in the Philippines through the first national pageant for lesbians.

Now in its second year, Tomboy Philippines aims 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," said Chit during an interview after the opening of LesQuest entertainment studio in Quezon City recently. It also marked her birthday celebration.

Chit said the team is excited for the second edition of Tomboy Philippines, sharing lessons learned from the first pageant.

"Alam naman ninyo sa pageantry, lahat gustong manalo. Yung iba kapag natalo bitter sila or sasabihin nila cooking show. Pero ngayon, kapag may mga maririnig siguro akong similar comments, I'll just accept it. Our candidates this time are more disciplined," she also said.

It was pageant king-turned-businessman Wilbert Tolentino who gave her the idea to organize a contest for lesbians. First, it was Wilbert who successfully came up with a pageant for lesbians. 

Chit Reyes joins partner Cowee Santos (2nd from left), her supportive family for a photo
Chit Reyes joins partner Cowee Santos (2nd from left), her supportive family for a photo

"I gave him 15 candidates. I was surprised it was a success. The venue was jam-packed," she also said. Later, Wilbert gave Chit the authority to manage her own lesbian contest.

Chit recognized that the lesbian community, much like the gay community, has yet to receive the respect and recognition it rightfully deserves. "We must stand together to advocate for equality and dignity for all."

"Hindi pa rin tanggap ang lesbian community sa Pilipinas. Yung gay community tanggap na sila sa atin pero hindi pa ang lesbian community," she said. "Siguro nasa 60 percent pa lang ang acceptance rate ng lesbian community sa atin. (The lesbian community is still not accepted in the Philippines. The gay community is accepted in the Philippines, but not the lesbian community. Maybe the lesbian community's acceptance rate is only at 60 percent in our country.)"

But Chit said at least the acceptance rate for lesbians is higher now than in previous years. "Meron pa rin pambabastos sa mga lesbian. (Some people still disrespect lesbians.)"

Chit also invited enthusiasts to visit LesQuest Studio, where they can rehearse dance routines, hold photo shoots, and record podcasts. "There are many talented lesbians we want to support. But this studio is open to all genders."

Although Chit identifies as a lesbian, she is proud of her children for accepting her as she is. Cowee Santos, her partner, is also involved in Tomboy Philippines and other business ventures. Chit said she and her former husband are now on good terms, although they live separate lives.

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